ABSTRACT
The principles outlined in this chapter apply to all situations where an animal is killed for food, euthanised on the farm or during depopulation for disease control. The public is often concerned that cattle, pigs, and sheep are aware and know they will be slaughtered. Both behaviour and physiological measures of stress are similar at the slaughter house and in a restraining squeeze chute for vaccinations. Removing visual distractions from handling facilities will improve livestock movement through races. Animal welfare laws in many countries require that livestock and poultry are rendered unconscious before they are bled. Captive bolt, electrical, and CAS controlled atmospheric stunning are discussed. The pros and cons of each method are covered. The welfare implications of religious slaughter without stunning are also discussed. A common mistake when determining whether or not an animal is unconscious is looking at kicking back legs. This is caused by reflexes and it can occur after the head is removed. The chapter also covers the use of objective outcome measures to assess animal welfare.
