Transport, Sale Yard Practices, and Humane Slaughter of Livestock

• Care must be observed when loading and unloading livestock to avoid injury and stress. Physical abuse of animals must not be tolerated under any circumstances. Designing and constructing chutes that accommodate behavioral characteristics of respective animal species will facilitate loading and unloading.
• Sick and injured animals should be separated and handled appropriately.
• Sorting, grouping, and penning in sale yards should be performed so that minimal stress is induced.
• Pens, alleys, and weighing scales should be constructed to permit safe and proper handling.
• Adequate protection should be provided from adverse environmental conditions.
• Consideration should be given to providing food, water, rest, and protection during all types of transportation.
• Safe and adequate vehicles should be used for transporting animals. Time limits during transit, as specified by state and federal regulations, must be observed.
• Policies, procedures, and surveillance should be enforced to reduce occurrence and transmission of infectious diseases.
• The AVMA supports governmental regulations pertaining to humane slaughter of food animals, and supports research on improved practices for humane slaughter.