Turkeys raised for meat production (e.g. whole turkey or drumsticks) are bred to grow and gain weight very rapidly, with birds ready for processing at around 10 weeks old. Once they arrive at the abattoir, turkeys are removed from their transport crates and shackled by their legs in preparation for…
Commercial turkeys raised for meat production may at times need to be euthanased on-farm because they are weak, sick, injured or unable to walk, and will not recover with treatment. As with all euthanasia of animals, it is important that the method used is humane, meaning the method chosen either…
For turkeys in commercial production systems to experience good welfare, it is important that their environment is stimulating, enriching and allows them to exhibit natural behaviours. Environmental enrichment can improve the bird’s environment by increasing the complexity of surroundings and by providing opportunities to engage in natural and rewarding behaviours….
(adopted 21/05/2023)
Animal hoarding, although recognised by human and animal services, is generally poorly understood in terms of its prevalence, causes, influencing factors and response to intervention. However, it is an important issue which results in the suffering, sometimes extreme, of many animals and causing strain on animal welfare agencies. Furthermore, those…
In recreational duck and quail hunting people use a shotgun to shoot the birds; this causes inevitable pain and suffering as not every bird is killed outright. While no recent studies have been conducted, one historical report showed that on average nearly a quarter of ducks were wounded and not…
Ehrlichiosis is a disease primarily affecting dogs that is spread by the brown dog tick. This disease can be fatal if not properly treated, so all dog owners should take immediate steps to protect their animals. Is the disease present in Australia? The disease was detected in May/June 2020 in…
(adopted 15/06/2020)
(adopted 15/06/2020)
(adopted 15/06/2020)