• Is sodium nitrite a more humane toxin than 1080 for feral pig control?

    For emergency advice on poisoning please go straight to this article: What should I do if suspect my pet has eaten a poison bait? RSPCA Australia has campaigned strongly for research into alternatives to 1080 poison for the control of pest animals. It is important that 1080 is replaced with…

  • What are the animal welfare issues with poultry slaughter?

    Meat chickens and layer hens, the main types of poultry farmed in Australia, are two different breeds of birds and are grown for different purposes. Meat chickens are raised for meat production so have been bred to grow and gain weight very rapidly. Depending on the weight requirements of the…

  • What is Kosher and Halal slaughter in Australia?

    What is Kosher slaughter? Kosher food laws are based on interpretation of the Bible and the Torah, the Judaic scriptures, and set out a range of beverages and foods (including meat) that are acceptable for people of the Jewish faith. For meat to be Kosher, animals must be slaughtered in…

  • Do racehorses need to be whipped for performance and safety?

    The need and right to whip racehorses merely for sport and wagering is being increasingly questioned by the community due to animal welfare concerns. The industry defends the use of whips as being necessary to enable jockeys to avoid interference or collision and for gaining the best performance from their horse….

  • What can I do if I suspect a problem with my pet’s food or treats?

    There have been a number of pet food product safety incidents over the years that have raised some concerns about pet food safety. These have included problems with treats as well as complete diets. Where can I go to report a pet food issue? The initial step is for you…

  • How can I teach my dog recall (to come when called)?

    One of the most important skills your dog needs to learn is “recall” – coming to you when you call. This is important in keeping your dog safe as it can help your dog avoid potentially dangerous situations such as being hit by a car, running off and becoming lost,…