As drought and difficult conditions continue across Victoria and livestock producers consider further destocking, Agriculture Victoria has published a list of items to consider before transporting stock.

Amid recent reports of stock arriving at livestock exchanges in poor condition, Agriculture Victoria Livestock Industry Development Officer Dr Hannah Manning said it’s important for producers to make early decisions to minimise welfare impacts on livestock.

“Body condition of livestock must be factored in when making a decision to sell to ensure they are strong enough to make the journey ahead.”

Dr Manning said as part of its drought support Agriculture Victoria is offering a one-on-one advisory service to help farmers with stock management strategies, decision making, and planning for managing these difficult seasonal conditions.

“Animals being sold via a saleyard can have long transport journeys ahead of them depending on the buyer, and therefore careful planning and preparation is needed to ensure their welfare is appropriately managed.

“All people involved in transporting livestock have a responsibility for their welfare from the original owner or person in charge that decides to sell the livestock, through to transporters, selling agents and the purchaser.

“If you have any concerns about the condition of your animals before they are transported, contact your veterinarian or Agriculture Victoria.”

Information relating to Fit to Load standards is available on the Agriculture Victoria website and Meat & Livestock Australia’s national guide titled ‘Is the animal fit to load?’

Indicators that an animal is not fit to load include:

• not able to walk normally or bear weight on all four legs. This may be due to a recent or old fracture, injury, a deformity or any other condition likely to further compromise its welfare during transport

• not strong enough to make the journey

• suffering from severe distress or injury

• in a condition that could cause it increased pain or distress during transport

• blind in both eyes

• in late pregnancy.

“Unfit to load animals should be either treated appropriately and then reassessed for transport once recovered, or humanely euthanised on farm or via knackery service in some areas,’ Dr Manning said.

“Resources to assist fit to load decision making and on-farm disposal of livestock are available on the Agriculture Victoria website.”

For more information on drought and dry seasons support and the technical decision-making support, visit the Agriculture Victoria website at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.