Make vets part of your management team
Farmers are being urged to make their veterinarians an integral part of their farm management team.
Regulations to strengthen the animal welfare system come into effect from today.
Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor says New Zealand’s economy relies on a social license to produce the finest food and fibre – and it can take one case of poor animal welfare to harm this.
“These regulations have been developed over the past three years, in consultation with industry and advocacy groups, and target lower-end offending.
“While most people care for their animals and are already doing it right, the regulations make it easier to take action against animal mistreatment and target specific behaviours that need to change.”
From today, Animal Welfare Inspectors from MPI and SPCA can issue fines for certain actions, such as allowing dogs in cars to get heat stressed, or failing to provide tethered goats with access to water and shelter.
Some of the regulations are infringement offences, with a set fine, while others are prosecutable offences, which could result in a larger fine and criminal conviction.
O’Connor says farmers also need to be aware of the new regulations, which cover on-farm practices and transporting livestock.
“Most of the regulations reflect existing farm practices but a few set new requirements.
“Many of the transport-related regulations apply to farmers selecting lame, sick or injured stock, so farmers should check they are doing it right or face a $500 fine.
“Farmers and transporters can download the Fit for Transport app or go to the MPI website where an interactive tool brings together all regulations, guidance and minimum standards in the codes of welfare.
“Whether you are a farmer or live on a lifestyle block, own a pet or petting zoo, transport livestock or ride a horse, the regulations will apply to you,” O’Connor said.
Read more at mpi.govt.nz/animalregs
James and Debbie Stewart from Dairylands in Manawatu impressed judges and took out the 2024 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award.
Manawatu farmers Will Hinton and Kali Rangiawha have scooped the 2024 New Zealand Share Farmers of the Year.
More bull breeders are using genetic tools according to the latest research.
Females are dominating the veterinary profession worldwide and many farmers are welcoming this change in the composition of the profession, says Britain's Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Professor Christine Middlemiss.
Fonterra has appointed a new chief financial officer, seven months after its last CFO’s shock resignation.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
OPINION: This old mutt well remembers the wailing, whining and gnashing of teeth by former West Coast MP and Labour…
OPINION: Your canine crusader gets a little fed up with the some in media, union hacks, opposition politicians and hard-core…