Stockmanship
Livestock owners should ensure that their stockmen and those responsible for the care of animals:
- are experienced and trained in caring for animals
- are aware of the Five Freedoms
- are fully familiar with the contents of the Codes of Recommendation for the welfare of cattle and have ready access to a copy for guidance when necessary
Full and accurate stock records must be kept, as required by law and the needs of good management.
Appropriate care must be taken when handling or moving animals.
Stockmen must be aware of the needs of a young calf and ensure that the calves receive colostrum as soon as possible after birth and in any case within the first six hours of life.
Provision must be made for the segregation, comfort and treatment of sick animals.
Those responsible for stock should be able to demonstrate they can:
- Recognise normal behaviour and good health in cattle, as opposed to those showing abnormal behaviour, fear, distress or poor health
- Recognise signs of common illnesses/diseases;
- Recognise the times and circumstances in which cattle may be particularly prone to welfare problems specific to their own units;
- Handle cattle compassionately and in a humane manner;
- If required carry out essential minor veterinary tasks competently
Knowledge of stockmanship should be acquired either through relevant practical experience, or where appropriate by completion of approved courses (eg those recognised by the Department of Agriculture).
