Euthanasia and Slaughter of Livestock

Temple Grandin
Department of Animal Science
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523, USA

Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Vol. 204 (1994) 1354-1360

ABSTRACT

This paper outlines the basic principles of captive bolt stunning, electric stunning and carbon dioxide anesthesia. It outlines the recommended amperages and currents for electrical stunning and describes how to assess whether or not an animal is rendered insensible. Other subjects that are discussed are preslaughter stress, behavioral principles of handling and ritual slaughter. One of the final conclusions is that the single most important determinant of good animal welfare in a slaughter plant is the attitude of management.

Keywords: Handling; Sorting; Drafting; Restraint; Race; Cattle