In indoor intensive systems, pregnant gilts/sows (female pigs) are moved to a farrowing crate, also known as a piglet protection pen, approximately a week before farrowing (giving birth) [1]. Farrowing crates confine sows so that they are unable to turn around. Some indoor systems may have farrowing pens which can…
Under normal circumstances, it is not recommended to feed wildlife as this can make them sick, get them too used to humans and change their natural behaviours. However, the recent bushfires and droughts have created unprecedented conditions for wildlife which have threatened and continue to threaten the survival and welfare…
There are many overseas animal encounters promoted as ‘must do’ or ‘must see’ for tourists, such as circuses, elephant riding, bull fights, petting and taking selfies with tigers, dancing bears, and other animals; but at what cost is this to the animals? These experiences pose significant animal welfare risks and…
Just like humans, dogs and cats may require a blood transfusion in situations such as: Serious trauma causing blood loss Blood loss during surgery Cancer Clotting and bleeding disorders Toxins that cause bleeding, such as rat bait and some snake bite toxins Pets can help save the lives of other…
It is best to avoid hugging your dog or cat because, although a tight hug is often a sign of affection between people, it can feel threatening to a dog or a cat. To survive in the wild, dogs and cats had to be able to use their bodies freely…
Bushfires can lead to persistent smoke and related air pollution and this can cause serious negative effects and health problems for animals, just as it can in people. However, there are measures you can take to minimise these impacts. The effects of bushfire smoke and pollution on animals The smoke…
Mass killing, or the humane killing of large numbers of farm animals, is at times required in the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak to control and prevent further spread of the disease. Emergency animal diseases where mass killing may be considered include diseases that are exotic (disease that…
Ventilation shutdown involves sealing a shed by shutting air inlets and/or by turning off ventilation fans following which the internal shed temperature rises from animals’ body heat and toxic gases accumulate from a build-up of manure in the shed. The high temperature in combination with the toxic gases is maintained…
Arthritis (also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease) is a common and serious animal health and welfare problem in cats [1–3]. It can significantly affect their quality of life. Signs of arthritis Signs that indicate your cat could have arthritis include: reduced activity reduced interaction with people and other…
Currently, horse owners are not required to identify or register their horses and there is no national database to record and retrieve this information. The establishment of a national horse registry would substantially improve traceability of horses across Australia, thereby achieving more effective responses to situations involving horses, including neglect…