Farm & Ranch
Livestock Euthenasia
By Barry Whitworth, DVM
When a farm animal (cattle, sheep, goats, pigs) comes to the end of their productive life, producers have to decide if the animal should be sent to slaughter or be euthanized.
According to Beef Quality Assurance guidelines, slaughter should be a consideration for animals that are not in severe pain, freely able to stand and walk, capable of being transported, and free of disease and drug residues. When these conditions cannot be met, the animal should be euthanized. Euthanasia is defined as a good death (“eu” which means well + “thanatos” which means death). It is the responsibility of all livestock producers to either have the skills and equipment to accomplish this or to know someone who does in a manner that is stress free and painless.
The decision to euthanize an animal should be based on the welfare of the animal. Euthanasia should be used to relieve suffering and pain. Also, it should be used when there is no hope for improvement in the animal’s condition or when additional treatments will not change the outcome.
To read more, pick up a copy of the August issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
By: Tressa Lawrence
It has been a hot, dry summer across northeastern Wyoming. Many ranchers are weaning and shipping early due to the dry conditions and lack of grass.
By: Lindsey Monk
The Four Mile Fire was 2,082 acres and very close to three other fires all started by lightning the same night. Together, the four fires burned a total of approximately 47,827 acres. That is a lot of feed for cattle, and ranchers were moving the cattle out of the way. They are mostly contained now, but it has been a very hot and dry summer.
The Texas and Southwest Cattle Raisers Association, the Texas Beef Council, and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension banded together to bring the Beef Quality Assurance coursework to Texas. Dedicated to promoting best management practices for cattle producers in an effort to strengthen consumer confidence in beef as a wholesome food product, the program focuses on best husbandry practices for quality beef. The BQA coursework is available both in-person and online, with three types of certification available- Cow/Calf, Stocker/Backgrounder, and Feedyard. Courses are offered in both English and Spanish.
To read more, pick up a copy of the September issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
(Photo courtesy of Hannah Claxton)
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