February 19, 2010

New Zealand releases new dairy cattle welfare code

A new code of animal welfare that sets down minimum standards for dairy cattle farming has been released by New Zealand.

Agriculture Minister David Carter says the Animal Welfare (Dairy Cattle) Code of Welfare 2010 provides clear guidelines about the handling and management of dairy cattle and leaves farmers in no doubt about the standards of welfare they should meet.

The new code covers all areas of dairy cattle management from stockmanship and husbandry practices, to food and water, shade and shelter, and health. This is the first time such a code has been issued.

It aims to encourage all those involved in the farming of dairy cattle to adopt the highest standards of handling and care, says Carter.

The code is particularly directed at the worst players in the industry, not the best, he added.

Failure to comply with minimum standards may lead to prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act.

The new code was developed by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) in consultation with the dairy industry and animal welfare and veterinary groups. Submissions were also sought from the public.

Guidelines are expected to be finalised within 24 months.