What is calving induction? Calving induction involves administering a drug to dairy cows to stimulate calving before full term. Some dairy farmers do this...
What are the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme standards for pigs? Through the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme the RSPCA works closely with farmers committed to raising pigs to higher animal welfare standards. Since releasing our first...
What are the animal welfare issues associated with pig production? In Australia, pigs farmed for meat may be housed in intensive indoor, semi-indoor (outdoor-bred) or outdoor (free-range) farming systems. Intensive...
Is hot iron branding of cattle legal in Australia? The use of hot iron branding of livestock including cattle, horses and other animals is legal in all States and...
What is virtual fencing (or virtual herding) and does it impact animal welfare? What is virtual fencing? Virtual fencing aims to remotely map and control livestock grazing behaviour without the use of fixed...
How are pigs farmed in Australia? Pigs are intelligent, sociable and inquisitive animals. Historically pigs were farmed as an additional source of income in the dairy...
Why is it important to declare mulesing status on the National Wool Declaration? What is the National Wool Declaration? In 2008, the Australian Wool Exchange (through which around 90% of Australian wool is...
What are the animal welfare issues associated with cashmere production? Cashmere is a fine fibre that is obtained from Cashmere goats and other similar breeds. The animal welfare issues relate...
What is sheep freeze branding (or steining) and is it an acceptable alternative to mulesing sheep? Sheep, especially Merinos, have woolly wrinkles and folds around the tail and breech area which attract blowflies and may become...
What are some of the painful procedures experienced by sheep on farm? RSPCA defines a painful farm animal husbandry procedure as any action that alters or removes a specific body part of...
What are some of the painful procedures experienced by cattle on farm? RSPCA defines a painful farm animal husbandry procedure as any action that alters or removes a specific body part of...
What are some of the painful procedures experienced by pigs on farm? RSPCA defines a painful farm animal husbandry procedure as any action that alters or removes a specific body part of...
How should I care for my pet turtle? Turtles are a unique species of reptile who have special requirements in captivity which must be met to ensure they...