Please note:

The transportation Code of Practice was published in 2001, several years prior to the 2019 amendments to Part XII (Transport of Animals) of the Health of Animals Regulations (HAR). Hence, the transportation Code references regulations that are out-of-date. 

For current rules and guidance on humane transport, please refer to the HAR that are posted by the Government of Canada (www.laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/C.R.C.,_c._296/page-10.html#h-548075), along with the Interpretive Guidance, (https://inspection.canada.ca/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/humane-transport/health-of-animals-regulations-part-xii/eng/1582126008181/1582126616914), which is updated as necessary by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). 

2. 1

Responsibilities

2.1.1

Humane transportation of animals is a joint responsibility of buyers, sellers, assembly point managers and truckers. Records must be maintained for account for time in transit, and care given to the animals during all phases of transportation.

2.1.2

Animals are subject to inspection under the Health of Animals Act transportation regulations while in transit. This includes while being held at auction markets and assembly yards if this is not their final destination. Therefore, transportation starts at the time of loading at the point of origin, continues through sale and reloading at auction markets and assembly yards and ends after unloading at final destination.

2.1.3

The transfer of animals from one sale facility to another should be avoided; animals must be fed, watered and rested before transfer.

2.1.4

Animals should be transported from point of origin to final destination by the safest route available. Transportation should be completed as soon as possible.

2.1.5

Any person engaged in transporting animals is obliged to plan their long-distance trips taking into consideration the availability and location of facilities that offer protection from extreme weather conditions and where animals may be unloaded, fed, watered, and cared for in a humane manner.

2.1.6

Producers, shippers and consignors are all responsible for:

1. contracting only qualified transporters who are knowledgeable of the proper care and handling of animals during transportation and who have species-appropriate equipment;
2. ensuring proper interior and exterior design of buildings to facilitate humane loading and unloading;
3. ensuring that all animals intended for transport are fit to be transported;
4. ensuring proper loading and unloading techniques are used at all times;
5. ensuring the assembled load is compatible with the intended vehicle;
6. ensuring proper rest times and appropriate feeding and watering of animals before and during transit; and,
7. providing a method for the driver to contact them in the event of an emergency if not accompanying the load.

2.1.7

The driver is responsible for the continued care and welfare of the animals during vehicle operation.

2.1.8

Transport crews should be properly instructed on and knowledgeable about the laws with respect to humane transport of animals and the basic facts of animal welfare and should be skillful in handling animals under varying climatic conditions.

2.1.9

Employers have an obligation to properly train employees on humane handling, equipment use, transportation regulations and livestock care. Employers should hold training sessions with their employees to instruct them on their responsibilities and obligations with respect to animal transportation. Training material such as videos, pamphlets and bulletins on animal transportation should be obtained and made available to employees. A knowledge of basic animal behaviour and risk factors will assist employees in understanding their job functions and the needs of the animals placed in their care.

2.1.10

Knowingly inflicting physical injury or unnecessary pain on animals is a criminal offence.

2.1.11

Areas where animals are housed and handled must have sufficient illumination during normal operations to allow the animals to be easily inspected by the handler and to allow the animals’ ease of movement at all times. All alleyways and ramps should be properly illuminated.

2.1.12

At night, lighting the interior of the transport truck helps during loading, but on bright sunny days it may help to shade the loading dock.

2.1.13

Provide uniform lighting directly over the approaches to sorting pens, single-file chutes, and loading ramps. Animals may balk at contrasting shadows, bright spots, and changes in floor surface.

2.1.14

Animals should be moved through assembly yards as quickly as possible to minimize the overall length of time in transport.

2.1.15

Where it is necessary to identify animals for assembly or transport purposes the use of non-permanent markers such as backtags, paint or coloured markers is recommended. The removal or replacement of puncture tags should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. The Canadian Cattle Identification Program will identify cattle by herd of origin with specially coded tags. Cattle tagged under this program will have tags bearing a unique traceable number.

2.2

Risk Factors

2.2.1

The following factors are associated with increased risk for animals in transit:

1. long-distance transportation, from loading at the place of origin, including poultry catching, to unloading at final destination; 
2. low economic value of the animals being transported;
3. adverse weather conditions; and,
4. other factors that compromise the ability of animals to be transported without suffering - e.g., pregnant, very young or old animals.

2.3

Pre-Transport Feed and Water Restriction

2.3.1

Current knowledge of animal nutrition requirements prior to and during transportation and during the antemortem period, in general is substantially incomplete. The current recommendations for feed and water withdrawal allowance are not substantiated by research data.

2.3.2

Animals which have been held for periods in excess of 24 hours without feed prior to loading may be nutritionally stressed and not have sufficient energy reserves to withstand the stress of long-distance transport. The Health ofAnimals Regulations require that animals be fed and watered within 5 hours before being loaded, if the expected duration of the animal’s confinement is longer than 24 hours from the time of loading. However, it is recommended that: 1) animals intended for a trip length in excess of 12 hours have access to appropriate feed and water within 5 hours before being loaded, and 2) animals being loaded for trips in excess of 4 hours receive feed within 24 hours prior to loading. 

Recommendations for feed, water and rest on route are shown in Section 5.5.

2.3.3

Pigs should have feed withdrawn 3-4 hours prior to loading. Heavy feed intake by pigs immediately prior to loading has been associated with vomiting and death loss. After eating, all species have an increased production of body heat. Short term fasting may benefit other species depending on the circumstances of the intended trip and ambient weather conditions.

2.3.4

Preparing poultry for transport to slaughter may involve short term feed withdrawal.

2.3.5

Animals should be given time to adjust to mechanical watering and feeding systems prior to transport to assembly points or to auction.

3.1

General

3.1.1

All vehicles used to transport animals should be in excellent condition and must be in full compliance with provincial highway traffic legislation.

3.1.2

All vehicles and containers used for transporting livestock should have sides, and when appropriate, partitions that are secure, strong, and high enough to prevent livestock from jumping, falling or being pushed out.

3.1.3

Vehicles and containers should have a quick release mechanism for partitions used to separate large animals in the event of straddling.

3.1.4

Vehicles and containers used for feeding, watering and resting animals on long hauls shall be suitably equipped for the purpose.

3.1.5

Vehicles and containers should have secure, smooth fittings , and should be free of protruding bolt heads and any other sharp protrusions. Bolts or latches must fasten securely so the animals will not move them.

3.1.6

Vehicle doors and internal gates should be large enough to permit animals to pass through easily without bruising or injury.

3.1.7

To avoid injury, vehicles and containers should be constructed so that no part of an animal can protrude from the vehicle or container.

3.1.8

Vehicle and container design should readily permit inspection of the animals in the shipment.

3.1.9

Provision must be made for the drainage or absorption of urine (see 3.1.23).

3.1.10

Vehicles and containers used to transport livestock should be cleaned, sanitized, and equipped with enough suitable fresh bedding material before each new load. When loads are assembled from a number of sources, these steps should be taken before the first animals are picked up.

3.1.11

Vehicles used to pull trailers or to carry animals must be appropriate for the safe and effective movement of the animals. Vehicles used to pull trailers must have sufficient power to smoothly accelerate the unit and sufficient braking ability to stop safely. Vehicles must be in full compliance with all highway traffic standards.

3.1.12

Sand or other appropriate material should be used in trucks where there is inadequate footing. Sand that contains materials known to be irritating or harmful to the animals (e.g., fertilizer, ash) should never be used. If salt is used the trailer must be thoroughly cleaned before hauling animals such as pigs, sheep or calves.

3.1.13

Particularly for poultry and pigs, vehicles and containers should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each shipment to prevent the spread of disease. All commercial unloading facilities should provide an appropriate area, suitably equipped, where cleaning of all vehicles can be done during all seasons.

3.1.14

Portable ramps should be stable and should provide good traction for the animals. The sides should be high enough to prevent injury to animals.

3.1.15

Sufficient ventilation must be available at all times while the animals are on a vehicle. Aerodynamic airfoils installed on truck tractors to enhance fuel efficiency must not restrict airflow into the trailer which is necessary for ventilation and cooling. Appropriate measures must be taken to prevent engine exhaust from entering the area occupied by the animals.

3.1.16

Ventilation should be adjustable from the outside of the vehicle in response to temperature changes during a trip. The use of adjustable weather panels is an effective way to achieve this.

3.1.17

When animals are transported in crates or bins, the design, construction, available space and state of repair should allow the animals to be loaded, conveyed, and removed without injury.

3.1.18

Chutes should take advantage of natural behaviour of animals. Most species prefer to follow a leader and to have no harsh changes in lighting. Animal handling is more easily accomplished if the alleyways and ramps have no sharp turns that could impede movement or could cause injury.

3.1.19

Unless livestock can be seen easily from outside the containers, every container used to transport animals must have a sign or symbol to indicate that it contains live animals and to show its upright position.

3.1.20

Containers used for transporting animals must be securely placed on vehicles to prevent them from moving during the journey.

3.1.21

When transporting livestock in containers, attention must be given to temperature, ventilation, facilities, and available space during the entire journey.

3.1.22

Containers that hold livestock should be tilted as little as possible during all stages of loading and unloading. They should always be moved smoothly and never thrown or dropped.

3.1.23

Suitable bedding such as straw or wood shavings or appropriate mats should be added to vehicles to assist in absorbing urine and feces, provide better footing for the animals and protect them from the hard flooring.

4.1

General

4.1.1

In a new situation or location, all normal, healthy animals are alert and inquisitive. Consequently, every change or disturbance in surroundings, such as noises, breezes, movement of objects, and flashes of light, should be avoided.

4.1.2

Animals must not be loaded or unloaded in a way that causes avoidable injury or suffering. Ramps should be used; tilting the box of a vehicle is totally unacceptable.

4.1.3

If a handler leads an animal into a vehicle, there must be an avenue of escape for the handler should the animal initiate any unexpected movement.

4.1.4

All places where animals are temporarily assembled for sale, show, transport, feed, water and rest, slaughter or any other reason must have sufficient facilities to accommodate safe loading, unloading and holding.

4.1.5

Prior to loading a vehicle an interior inspection should be performed and bedding added or other corrective measures taken to assure safe transportation.

4.1.6

A system of early identification of injured animals prior to unloading and an action plan must be in place and known to all employees.

4.1.7

Animals should not be rushed during loading and unloading.

4.1.8

Abrupt movements by drivers and loaders should be avoided.

4.1.9

The use of electric prods is discouraged for all species and shall not be applied to the head or genital regions of any animal. Electric prods are not acceptable in handling horses. The use of canvas slappers and other goads should be kept to a minimum. A good understanding of animal behaviour, and a careful, cautious approach by the handler will facilitate the loading procedure.

4.1.10

No gap should exist between the ramp, its sides, and the stationary vehicle to be loaded. In possum belly trailers, internal ramps should have solid sides continuous to the floor to prevent foot slippage off the side of the ramp. The loading/unloading surface should be level with the vehicle floor

4.1.11

Loading and unloading facilities should have the following characteristics:

1. ramps should accommodate the different sizes of vehicles in common use, for example by providing docks of different heights, or adjustable ramps. No gap should exist between the ramp, its sides and the vehicle;
2. ramps and chutes should be of solid construction and free from sharp projections; and,
3. the dock surface should be level with the vehicle floor. If the loading surface and the vehicle surface are not level, animals should not be required to negotiate a step in excess of the recommended height shown in Table 1.

Species

Height (centimeters/inches)

Market Hogs

25 cm (10”)

Sheep and Goats

38 cm (15”)

Light Feeder Calves

50 cm (20”)

Slaughter Cattle and Cows

63 cm (25”)

Horses

25 cm (10”)

Species

Maximum Recommended Slope (degrees)

Market Hogs

20°

Sheep and Goats

35°

Cattle

25°

Deer

35°

Horses

30°

4.1.12

Elevated docks should be at least 1.5 m (5 ft) wide.

4.1.13

The slope of ramps should not exceed those shown in Table 2.

4.1.14

The provision of gates to prevent direction reversal is highly recommended.

4.1.15

Loose animals should not be unloaded directly into long alleyways. The animals unloaded first will move to the end of the alley and animals following may have a tendency to bolt to rejoin the previously unloaded group. Every effort should be made to control the speed of animal movement when unloading.

4.1.16

Assembly point and slaughterhouse management should ensure that all deliveries are properly scheduled and an adequate number and type of unloading ramps are available to fit all vehicles delivering animals.

4.1.17

Pens should be available in various sizes to minimize the need to mix different lots of animals.

4.1.18

Facilities and practices must be in place to segregate animals of different weights, health status or incompatible by nature. Proper sorting pens should be available for mixed loads. Individual pens should be available for sick or injured animals.

4.2

Farm Access Recommendations

4.2.1

Loading areas should be designed and located to permit transport vehicles to turn around, to reach them without having to back off of a public road, and to leave them without having to back on to a public road.

4.2.2

Laneway entrances should be of sufficient road-top width to accommodate a tractor trailer -- a minimum of 6 m (20 ft) is proposed.

4.2.3

Laneways should be constructed to support the weight and dimensions of the vehicles used to load animals under all weather conditions -- 3.65 m (12 ft) wide is proposed.

4.2.4

For loading poultry, loading areas should be level and should be long enough to allow loading along the entire length of the vehicle being loaded.

4.2.5

Snow should be removed from loading areas and, where necessary, sand or salt should be applied before trucks arrive to load.

4.3

Segregation

4.3.1

Every effort should be made to eliminate unnecessary mixing of animals from different sources.

4.3.2

The following livestock must be segregated while in transit in the same vehicle:

1. animals of different species;
2. animals that would be likely to fight with each other; 
3. of substantially different weight or age, except for a female animal and its
4. suckling offspring; and,
5. animals of different health status

4.3.3

Mature males should be partitioned separately from other livestock.

4.3.4

Proper facilities and sorting pens should be available for segregating mixed loads.

4.4

Space Requirements

4.4.1

In transport, animals require sufficient floor space to allow for adequate ventilation and a reasonable level of comfort. Overcrowding can directly cause discomfort due to lateral pressure on the animal. Individual animals transported in overcrowded conditions may be unable to get up should they lose their footing. Trampling and animal injury can result from overcrowding. In adverse weather, severe heat buildup may result from overcrowding.

4.4.2

Each animal should be able to assume its natural position for transport without coming into contact with the roof or upper deck of the vehicle. The amount of headroom also depends on species of animals.

4.5

Loading Density

4.5.1

In planning a load of animals, consideration must be given to the size and type of animal, number in the group loaded, construction of the trailer or container and useable floor space.

4.5.2

Large animals can be loaded safely at higher loading densities than small animals of the same species based on weight per unit area of floor space and area per animal. In this code all recommendations will be made in the units of weight per unit area with the exception of poultry. See Appendix 2.

4.5.3

Some animals, such as cattle and horses, are transported standing, while others, such as deer, swine and poultry are transported lying down. This postural preference is partly reflected in lower loading densities for animals transported lying down.

4.5.4

In hot humid weather animals require more ventilation during transport to prevent dangerous levels of heat buildup. This situation is most easily adjusted for by decreasing loading density.

4.5.5

Physical features of animals such as horns or wool can affect safe loading densities. Animal handlers should evaluate recommended loading densities in light of these characteristics.

4.5.6

Visual examination of a group of animals in a truck compartment, in conjunction with a calculated measurement (determination) of recommended floor space per animal should be used to determine load density. Knowing animal size and vehicle floor space limitations allows better preparation and management of loads for transport

4.5.7

Recommended loading densities are given in Appendix 2.

4.5.8

In large consignments of animals, vehicle stability can be maximized and animal piling can be minimized by controlling the group size on the truck. Most large vehicles are equipped with cross gates to hold animals in groups.

5.1

General

5.1.1

Drivers should start, drive, and stop their trucks smoothly to prevent animals from being thrown off their feet. They should practice defensive driving by ensuring that adequate space is available should an emergency require an unexpected stop. In addition, they should negotiate turns in the smoothest possible manner.

5.1.2

Drivers should check each load immediately before departure to ensure that the animals have been properly loaded. Each load should be checked again early in the trip and adjustments made as appropriate. Drivers should check for signs of general discomfort of the animals, such as overheating. Periodic checks should be made.

5.1.3

All places where animals are temporarily assembled for sale, show, feed, water and rest, or for any other reason, must have adequate facilities for safe loading, unloading and holding.

5.2

Precautions in Extreme Weather

5.2.1

Animals must be protected during transit to prevent suffering caused by exposure to severe weather conditions. No matter what type of transportation is used, adequate airflow throughout the vehicle or container must be provided to keep the animals comfortable. Warming and cooling can predispose to severe respiratory problems.

5.2.2

Weather conditions should be monitored and ventilation adjusted accordingly. Monitoring of the livestock environment inside the trailer can be accomplished by careful animal observation. As technology improves to allow monitoring of the animal environment in trailers (such as CO² and temperature sensors), it should be implemented within the transport industry as soon as its effectiveness is validated.

5.2.3

Ventilation should be adjustable from the outside of the vehicle in response to temperature changes during a trip.

5.2.4

In extreme or rapidly changing weather, animals should be inspected frequently for signs of environmental exposure.

5.3

Precautions in Cold Weather

5.3.1

During winter travel:

1. increased bedding or insulation is necessary in cold weather; 
2. increased loading density beyond recommendations can predispose to frostbite in individual animals because it prevents them from repositioning in the trailer;
3. openings should be covered to protect animals from cold winds. Wind chill lowers the effective environmental temperature, and can cause frostbite;
4. openings should be adjusted to balance the need for protection from wind chill with the need for adequate ventilation; and
5. precautions should be taken to protect young animals.  They must be kept dry and provided with an adequate supply of bedding.

5.3.2

Take special precautions in cold weather as follows:

1. replace bottom slats in vehicles to protect animals from the cold, but allow adequate ventilation;
2. close nose vents; and,
3. protect animals from cold crosswinds.

5.3.3

Distribute ample bedding, such as straw, when the temperature is below 10°C (50° F) because it provides good insulation and helps to keep animals warm and dry.

5.3.4

Remove wet bedding after each trip to prevent it from freezing on the trucks.

5.3.5

Animals need to be protected from freezing rain and wind blowing into the sides of the truck, because it increases their loss of heat and can cause death from hypothermia, even at temperatures above freezing.

5.4

Precautions in Hot/Humid Weather

5.4.1

During hot and humid weather, precautions should be taken to avoid stress, suffering and possibly death caused by the combination of high temperature and high humidity:

1. animals should be handled carefully because exertion in hot, humid weather is particularly stressful, and increases the chances of heat stroke;
2. sufficient ventilation must be available at all times while the animals are on a vehicle. Aerodynamic airfoils installed on truck tractors to enhance fuel efficiency must not restrict airflow into the trailer which is necessary for ventilation and cooling;
3. observe weather conditions carefully and adjust ventilation accordingly;
4. whenever possible, journeys during hot, humid periods should be avoided;
5. during hot and humid periods, animal transportation should be scheduled at night and in the early morning;
6. periods of intense traffic congestion should be avoided;
7. vehicles containing animals should not be parked in direct sunlight. When it is necessary to stop, the duration of the stop should be minimized to prevent the buildup of heat inside the vehicle; and,
8. loading density should be reduced in hot and humid weather (see Appendix 2).

5.4.2

Animals can be cooled by watering the floor of pens or by using a fine mist spray. Cold water should not be poured on animals as this could cause death by shock.

5.5

Feed, Water and Rest

5.5.1

Recommended maximum transport times and minimum feed, water and rest periods for several species and classes of animals are shown in Table 4. Feed, water and rest should be provided more often for animals with reduced ability to cope with the stress of transport, such as very young or old animals, and for all animals that are transported under adverse conditions, such as travel through different climatic zones and weather extremes.

5.5.2

Total time in transport and lairage during which the animals have not received feed and water, from the premises of origin to final destination, should not exceed 52 hours for cattle, sheep and goats, or 40 hours for pigs, horses and poultry.

5.5.3

Animals that are in any way compromised, such as very young, old or pregnant, should be offered feed and water, and rested more often.

5.5.4

Nurs ing animals accompanying their dams should be allowed an opportunity to nurse undisturbed at suitable intervals. Nursing young should be provided with appropriate additional feed and water at least every 8 hours.

5.5.5

The Health of Animals Regulations also contain mandatory requirements for providing animals with feed, water and rest during long trips.

5.5.6

Animals may be fed, watered and rested on a vehicle that is suitably equipped. A suitably equipped vehicle for this purpose is one that meets criteria that are equivalent to those listed in section 5.5.8 for feed, water and rest stations for space, freedom from projections such as protruding latches or hinges, bedding, feed and water supply and facilities, lighting and inspection, ventilation and temperature maintenance and access to veterinary care.

5.5.7

Most vehicles are not suitably equipped to provide for adequate feed, water and rest. It is therefore necessary to plan long-distance trips taking into consideration the availability and location of facilities that offer protection from extreme weather conditions, and where animals may be unloaded, fed, watered, and cared for in a humane manner.

5.5.8

The following factors should be considered regarding feed, water and rest stations:

1. yards must be large enough for ample parking, loading and unloading of multipurpose stock liners;
2. access should be available 24 hours/day for loading, feeding, watering and care of livestock as needed, including the availability of veterinary attention;
3. gates should be in place to prevent direction reversal;
4. catch pens and double deck chutes should be in place for proper loading and unloading of livestock;
5. alleyways and internal gates should be wide enough to permit livestock to pass through easily without bruising or injury;
6. pens must provide adequate space for all animals to lie down at the same time. Resting animals should be able to move freely in a well-bedded and protected environment and penned with at least twice the floor space as in transit recommendations. During feed, water and rest or overnight holding, no animal should be stocked at any more than 122 kg/square meter (25 lbs/square foot). Pen sizes should be available for all types of livestock that may be unloaded at the facility (e.g., 50' x 60', 15' x 25', 30' x 60'). Strong pens must be available for the holding of buffalo, elk, draft horses and bulls;
7. pens should be constructed to prevent escape of all types of small and/or large animals;
8. floors of pens, alleyways and chutes should provide secure footing for the animals and be free from projections;
9. while the Health of Animals Regulations prohibit the transportation of an animal if it is probable that the animal will give birth during the journey, it is recommended that maternity facilities be provided, in order to be prepared for this possibility;
10. animals segregated due to injury or illness should be examined by a veterinarian on staff or on contract with the feed, water and rest facility;
11. the environment should be free from excessive disturbance by noise, movement of people or other animals;
12. an adequate quantity of good quality, appropriate feed for the species should be available to all animals, so that each animal has an opportunity to eat. The Health of Animals Regulations specify that the rest period must be at least 5 hours. A 5-hour rest period will be insufficient if not all of the animals have the opportunity to satisfytheir feed and water requirements (see Table 4);
13. pens must be equipped with feeders that are suitable to animals to be placed therein;
14. all animals must have free access to clean drinking water, with due consideration to the animals' size and manner of drinking, e.g., lower watering troughs for hogs, sheep, goats and other small animals, and higher watering troughs for larger livestock. Water must be protected from freezing and should be provided in adequate quantity to meet the animals' needs;
15. suitable clean, dry bedding, such as straw, sand or wood shavings should be placed in all pens and in all types of multi-purpose stock liners before reloading;
16. animals should be protected from wind, rain and temperature extremes while in the pens, and during loading and unloading. For beef cattle see Section 8.2;
17. proper lighting needs to be ensured in alleyways, pens and loading chutes. Glare or shadows that intimidate the animals from moving forward should be avoided. Adequate lighting should also be available for observation of each animal in the pens;
18. all pens and alleyways should have proper drainage. It is recommended that floor drains be located outside the path of animal movement, as floor drains cause a light contrast which may inhibit the animals;
19. ventilation and maintenance of appropriate temperatures in all types of weather are top priorities in all barns;
20. a separate facility equipped for milking, and knowledgeable staff experienced in hygienic milking procedures, are essential at facilities that accommodate dairy cattle
21. a well-lit cleaning area, functional in all seasons, should be in place for cleaning out and re-bedding of trailers. Sufficient water outlets and hoses should be available for thorough cleaning of all pens, ramps, chutes and alleyways; and
22. some animals will lose their domestic health status or their export eligibility if unloaded at certain sites. Check with the local Canadian Food Inspection Agency office.

5.5.9

Slaughter animals imported from the United States cannot be unloaded in Canada for feed, water and rest. They must reach their final destination prior to unloading. Transporters must assure that the total duration of the trip does not exceed the regulatory requirement.

6.1

General

6.1.1

Animal welfare considerations should take precedence over economic considerations.

6.1.2

Prior to transport animals should be in good physical condition and health. Animals that are sick, injured, disabled, fatigued, or that cannot be moved without causing them additional suffering, are unfit for transportation.

6.1.3

Subject animals may be loaded and transported directly to an abattoir, provided that such loading and transport does not cause additional suffering. Such animals must be segregated on the vehicle. Subject animals must be loaded last and unloaded first.

6.1.4

Non-ambulatory animals (downers) should not be loaded for transport unless allowed by provincial regulations and when following strict guidelines for proper loading and transport. The animal should be examined on the premises by a veterinarian. If the carcass is not salvageable, the animal should be euthanized. If the carcass could be of value, the animal should be rendered unconscious, slaughtered, and the carcass immediately moved to an abattoir for processing. In jurisdictions where on-farm slaughter is not permissible, the animal should be euthanized if loading and transportation without further suffering are not possible. In some situations, injured animals should be humanely killed. Appendix 4 outlines proper means of killing animals using firearms.

6.1.5

An animal that becomes sick, injured or disabled during transit must be taken to the nearest appropriate place for treatment. Veterinary advice should be sought.

6.1.6

An animal that becomes injured, sick, or disabled in transit should be kept segregated from other animals.

6.1.7

In the case of a vehicle accident or roadside emergency, immediate action should be taken to minimize suffering of animals in transit. Veterinary advice should be sought (see Appendix 3 Emergency Procedures).

6.1.8

Injured, sick or disabled animals should be unloaded in a way that causes the least amount of suffering.

6.1.9

Non-ambulatory animals (downers) must not be removed from the vehicle while conscious. The animal should be evaluated by a veterinarian. If not fit for transport (see A Guide to Handling Animals at Risk, page 15), the animal should be killed. If fit for transport, the animal should be moved in the vehicle to the nearest abattoir, examined, and humanely stunned or killed on the vehicle prior to unloading. Once unloaded, the stunned animal must be immediately slaughtered before regaining consciousness.

6.1.10

Care and common sense are essential when forced movement of a stressed animal is necessary. Each animal should be treated with extreme patience and should be allowed to rest when necessary to avoid exertion.

6.1.11

Special care should be taken in transporting lactating dairy cows, and pregnant dairy cows that are close to calving. These cows are especially susceptible to infectious disease (mastitis) and metabolic disease (milk fever, ketosis). Lactating cows in transport should be milked as required, generally twice daily at 12 hour intervals. Transportation within two weeks prior to, and after, calving should be avoided.

6.1.12

Transporting cull dairy cows in adverse weather conditions is a special concern. These cows may be unfit for transportation due to poor body condition, age or infirmity. Producers should be aware that these cows are at risk of developing complications during transport. Such cows should be culled and shipped before becoming high risk animals. Alternately, such cows may be taken directly to an abattoir for processing, or, in extreme cases, such cows should be euthanized on farm.

6.1.13

Pregnant animals must not be transported if they are likely to give birth during the journey.

6.1.14

Calves too young to be fed exclusively on hay and grain must be provided with suitable feed and water at least every 18 hours. It is recommended that they be provided with suitable feed and water at least every 12 hours.

6.1.15

Any animal that dies in transit must be removed from the vehicle at the first opportunity in accordance with provincial and federal legislation.

7.1

Animals should be cared for humanely during the post transport and/or antemortem period, generally defined as the 24 hours - 48 hours prior to slaughter. Humane treatment during this period should include:

1. safe, careful unloading and movement into clean, uncrowded, dry holding areas.
   When unloading animals at a commercial abattoir (packing plant) attention should be paid to any animals that may have become downers (trampled) or non-ambulatory or injured during transport. In such cases the ante mortem inspector should be notified and proper segregation and care or euthanasia should be extended to these animals (see Section 6, Animals at Risk).
2. reasonable protection from adverse weather, noise (such as exhaust fans or vehicles), noxious odours (such as exhaust from rendering or petrochemical sources)or views likely to upset the animals (such as people, vehicles, animals being stunned); and,
3. access to clean water.

7.2

Proper ante mortem and/or post transport care will reduce weight loss, health problems and meat quality degradation.

7.3

Proper loading, unloading, care and management is important to the wellbeing of animals during the ante mortem period. Animals that will be kept for more than a few hours after transport should be provided with food, water and rest (see Section 5.5).

8.1

Calves

8.1.1

Calves too young to be fed exclusively on hay and grain must be provided with suitable feed and water at least every 18 hours. It is recommended that they be provided with suitable feed and water at least every 12 hours.

8.1.2

Allow calves that have overexerted themselves to rest. This is a special problem with confined calves and can lead to heart failure. Sufficient opportunity should be provided to allow calves to overcome the results of over exertion.

8.1.3

In hot weather handle calves carefully because exercise increases stress problems. Wide temperature fluctuations between day and night also increase stress.

8.1.4

Care is essential when forced movement of a stressed calf is necessary. Every animal should be treated with extreme patience when it is overexerted.

8.1.5

Every effort should be made to ensure that calves are presented, sold, and delivered from only one sale facility. Every effort should be made to keep the distance to be travelled and the travelling time to a minimum.

8.1.6

During transit, calves should be provided with suitable feed and water at intervals not to exceed 18 hours if they are too young to be fed exclusively on hay or grain.

8.1.7

If a journey is to last longer than 18 hours, calves must be fed and watered within 5 hours of loading.

8.1.8

Calves that are unloaded for food, water, and rest must be placed in a suitably covered shelter, provided with enough food and potable water, and rested for at least 5 hours.

8.1.9

Transporters must maintain, or have access to, facilities where calves may be fed, watered, and cared for and that provide shelter from extreme temperatures.

8.1.10

Calves of substantially different sizes should be segregated.

8.2

Beef Cattle

8.2.1

Beef cattle are regularly housed in outdoor situations consisting of pens and pasture. In general, they are more able to physiologically accommodate to the physical challenges of transport. They normally have an appropriate hair coat for the season and have physically adapted to the outdoor environment of assembly and transport. Adherence to the general considerations in this code should assure humane transportation of this class of animal.

8.2.2

Outdoor and range raised cattle may be less comfortable with people in close proximity and assembly may be a novel experience. Highly excited animals are a risk for self-injury and human injury in the marketing systems. “Spooky” cattle should be handled with care and consideration.

8.2.3

Beef calves only having previous exposure to a dugout or stream as a water source may not immediately drink from automated water sources when assembled.

8.2.4

Dairy cattle are also marketed for beef. Dairy cattle are often less able to adapt to the outdoor environment of assembly and transport. Trucks hauling dairy slaughter cattle require some boarding up in inclement weather.

8.2.5

A dairy animal requires more floor space on the truck than a beef type animal of the same weight.

8.3

Dairy Cattle

8.3.1

Special care should be taken when transporting lactating dairy cows and pregnant dairy cows that are close to calving. These cows are especially susceptible to infectious disease (mastitis) and metabolic disease (milk fever, ketosis). Lactating cows in transport should be milked as required, generally twice daily at 12 hour intervals. Pregnant cows that may calve during transport must not be transported. Transportation within two weeks prior to and after calving should be avoided.

8.3.2

Transporting cull cows in adverse weather conditions is a special concern. These cows may be unfit for transportation due to poor body condition, age or infirmity, and lack of acclimatization to cold weather. Producers should be aware that these cows are at risk of developing complications during transport. Such cows should be culled and shipped before becoming high risk animals. If suitable for transport, such cows may be taken directly to the closest abattoir, or, in extreme cases should be euthanized on farm.

8.3.3

Calving is a natural phenomenon and as such the timing cannot be precisely predicted. Consideration should be given to curtailing long distance travel during expected calving time and immediately thereafter.

8.3.4

Calves should be loaded only into vehicles that are clean and disinfected and that contain suitable fresh bedding material. Bob calves should not be bedded in shavings or sawdust because if they ingest this type of bedding material they will experience digestive problems.

8.3.5

Dairy cattle of substantially different sizes should be segregated (see Section 4.3, Segregation).

8.3.6

Devices used to tether dairy cattle must be removed immediately if they restrict breathing or otherwise cause discomfort to the dairy cattle.

8.3.7

Milking cattle should not be deprived of feed and water for longer than 12 hours.

8.3.8

Cull dairy cattle in transit require more space on a per animal weight basis than equivalent weight beef cattle. Dairy type cows in good body condition require about 10% more space than an equivalent weight beef cow and thin dairy cows can require up to 25% more space than an equivalent weight beef animal. Refer to the beef maximal loading density chart (Figure 3) and make the appropriate adjustment for hauling groups of cull dairy cows.

8.4

Farm Deer (elk, white tail, mule deer, fallow deer and others)

8.4.1

Except in emergencies, the following deer must not be transported:

1. pregnant deer 1) within 14 days of giving birth, 2) within 30 days of giving birth, if the duration of the trip will exceed 6 hours, 3) within 90 days of giving birth, if the ambient temperature is expected to exceed 20º C, or 4) if the deer cannot be assembled and loaded in a reasonably efficient and quiet manner;
2. deer with young at foot under 4 weeks of age (young can be transported separately from dams for short trips);
3. pre-rut weaned animals within 2 weeks of separation from their dams; or
4. deer in velvet, with bleeding or incompletely healed pedicles, or within the first 48 hours after antler removal.

8.4.2

Each animal should be able to stand in its natural position, allowing for comfortable head movements without touching the deck or roof of the vehicle or container. All deer should be able to lie down comfortably at the same time.

8.4.3

As a guide to achieving 8.4.2, calculate length x width of the space occupied by each animal when lying down, then divide the loadable surface area of the truck or container by that figure to calculate the number of animals to be loaded. Reduce that number somewhat on longer trips or in hot weather (Appendix 2).

8.4.4

Deer should be segregated according to species, size, gender, age, social group and/or compatibility.

8.4.5

A male in rut or with hard antlers must be segregated from all other animals. Males with velvet antlers should not normally be transported.

8.4.6

When the vehicle is not full, deer should be securely partitioned in smaller areas to provide stability for the deer and the vehicle. The size of any group should not exceed 15 individuals (Section 3).

8.4.7

On long journeys (more than 6 h) the animals should be offered water, however, they should be fed and watered if the journey is more than 10 h. As a rule, deer need to be offered drinking water frequently. If the weather is hot, spraying the deer with a fine mist will help to cool them and will also act to calm the deer.

8.4.8

Deer should be fed and watered before loading for transport.

8.4.9

Where transport time will exceed 24 hours, carriers should transport deer in vehicles that are equipped to provide adequate resting space, water and hay. Water can be provided by hosing down the animals and wetting their hay at 4 hour intervals during transport, weather permitting. This technique will also cool the deer in hot weather.

8.5

Horses

General Considerations

8.5.1

A nursing foal with dam must be segregated from other animals during transport and should be allowed an opportunity to nurse undisturbed (with the vehicle stopped) at suitable intervals. Mares with nursing foals should be provided with appropriate feed and water during transit

8.5.2

Blind horses require special handling. A blind horse should be haltered and transported individually or with familiar pen mates or a compatible horse. They should never be sold through auction markets or other unfamiliar surroundings.

Headroom

8.5.3

Each animal must be able to assume a natural stance, standing with four feet on the floor and have a full range of head and neck movement without touching the ceiling of the container. As a guide the minimum headroom for horses in transit can be approximated by multiplying the withers height by 1.25 (1 inch of headroom, withers to ceiling height for each hand in withers height).

8.5.4

When using possum belly trailers for horse transport, handlers must pay special attention to prevent horses’ heads from coming into contact with the deck while moving into or out of the upper or lower decks. The internal angle and positioning of ramps can alter effective headroom when horses pass through doors.

Loading and Unloading

8.5.5

Horses generally move toward light. To encourage the safe and efficient movement of horses, adequate and appropriate lighting is required around alleys, loading ramps and the entrance to transport vehicles. Lamps should not be shone directly into horses’ eyes. Diffused lighting should be used. Harsh contrasts in lighting should be avoided.

8.5.6

Chutes or ramps should be about 76 cm (30 in) wide to allow horses to move in single file. Movement of loose horses is more easily accomplished if the alleys and ramps have no sharp turns that could impede movement or c ause injury. Chute design should allow for a gradual curve with no more than a 15° bend. The walls of chutes and ramps should be solid. The inside wall should be made slightly lower so that the animals can see the tops of the heads of horses in front of them.

8.5.7

Horses have thin skin compared to other animals of a similar mass. Special care should be exercised to maintain a smooth surface to all handling facilities. A horse caught on a protruding nail or similar sharp object can suffer serious skin laceration.

8.5.8

Concrete ramps should be stair step design (approximately 5 cm rise and 20 cm run) with adequate grooving in the concrete.

8.5.9

Wooden ramps require square cleats 3.8 - 5.0 cm (1.5 - 2 in) attached to the ramp every 20 cm (8 in). Hardwood or square steel tubing should be used for cleats.

8.5.10

If loose horses are backed off a vehicle, the down ramp should maintain a constant narrow width until the horses achieve level footing. Horses backing down a ramp should not be allowed to attempt to turn around on an incline.

8.5.11

Loose horses should not be unloaded directly into long alleyways. The animals unloaded first will move to the end of the alley and horses unloaded later will have a tendency to bolt to rejoin the previously unloaded group. Every effort should be made to control the speed of horses being unloaded.

8.5.12

Drains should be installed outside the alleyway. Horses may balk and refuse to walk over drain grates in the middle of the floor or alleyways.

8.5.13

Horses generally transport well when shod. Handlers should evaluate the condition and attachment of shoes, compatibility with the trailer floor and the potential risk of injury to other animals when loading shod animals in a group. Under the Health of Animals Regulations horses with shoes on their hind feet must be segregated from all other animals.

8.6

Pigs

General Considerations

8.6.1

Several important physical and behavioural characteristics are important to consider when handling pigs. The pig has 310/ panoramic vision. What it sees greatly influences how it moves. Make sorting gates, pens, and ramp sides of solid panels such as plywood to block out distracting sights and sounds. Gate and fence panels should fit close to the floor.

8.6.2

Pigs have a strong tendency to follow each other and to maintain both visual and body contact. Gently encourage the lead pig to enter the handling facility and others will generally follow. Pigs may balk at contrasting shadows, bright spots, and changes in floor surface. Provide uniform lighting directly over the approaches to sorting pens, single-file chutes, and loading ramps. At night, lighting the interior of the transport truck helps during loading, but on bright sunny days it may help to secure a canvas cover to darken the outside part of the loading dock.

8.6.3

Pigs have a strong escape reaction. When prodded, a pig will attempt to get away, either by running forward or by turning back to shelter among the group. This reaction is a major cause of jamming and wedging at any tapered passage, such as the funneled entrance to a single-file chute. Two or three panicking pigs will wedge into the funnel, but, unlike cattle and sheep, they will not back up to allow an orderly sorting-out. Handlers must not kick pigs.

8.6.4

Pigs are semi-tropical animals most comfortable at temperatures preferred by people. Pigs are also transported at a very broad weight range from 5 kg (10 lbs) to 300 kg (650 lbs) cull breeding animals. Early segregated weaning and three-site production programs greatly increase the number of times a pig may be subjected to transport during its production life.

Health Concerns

8.6.5

Many pig farms are high security and specific pathogen free. Introduction of pathogens into a previously unexposed population can precipitate significant animal suffering. The principal method of disease transmission is animal movement. The transport of swine must minimize the introduction of specific pathogens into an unexposed herd.

8.6.6

The stress and excitement associated with handling and transport can lead to serious health problems and death. Three of the most common and important health concerns are:

• heat stress or hyperthermia; death rate in transit to slaughter begins to rise when temperatures exceed 16°C (61°F);
• heart failure;
• porcine stress syndrome (PSS).

8.6.7

During hot weather the pig usually maintains its temperature by panting. Heat stress occurs when the pig’s body temperature rises to an uncontrollable level. A pig that is in distress makes loud, deep, gasping sounds. Act quickly to cool an over-heated pig or it will die. Do not cause the pig to run or climb ramps. If possible move the pig to a cooler environment and wet it down with a fine spray of cool water. Do not pour cold water on pigs because they could die from shock.

8.6.8

Heart failure can occur in pigs moving up ramps, or following strenuous exercise associated with mixing and handling. The clinical signs of heart failure occur suddenly. The pig collapses; its breathing is rapid; the ears and snout turn blue. The animal requires immediate attention. Separate other pigs from it and allow it to rest. Any prodding or additional stress is likely to put further strain on the pig’s heart and lead to its death. Pigs can take up to an hour to recover and be able to stand.

8.6.9

Porcine stress syndrome (PSS) is an inherited disorder of pigs. Animals with this genetic defect are extremely sensitive to stress and must be handled with exceptional care. When PSS pigs are stressed, their body temperature suddenly rises, their skin develops red blotches, they collapse, and their limbs become rigid. Treat immediately in the same way as for cooling the heat-stressed pig (see earlier).

8.6.10

If a pig lies down while being handled and appears distressed, let it rest and recover without prodding. Repeated prodding may result in heart failure and death.

8.6.11

The moving of pigs whether from pen to pen, barn to truck, or truck to plant, can be stressful both for pigs and attendants. Patience and common sense are needed to make the move easier.

8.6.12

By gently encouraging the lead pig to enter the handling facility, others will generally follow. A small group of pigs is easier to move than a large group.

Loading and Unloading

8.6.13

Design the loading zone to safeguard against spread of infectious organisms as much as possible. Take care to prevent the return or escape of loaded pigs from the truck or loading zone back into the building.

8.6.14

Depending on facilities move small bunches of 5 to 8 pigs through the alleyway and up the loading ramp. Moving large bunches results in pileups and stress. This is especially important with lean, modern hybrids because they may have an excitable disposition.

8.6.15

When new finishing barns are built 1 m (3 ft) alleyways should be built. Pigs jam and are difficult to move through a .6 m (24 in) alley.

8.6.16

It is recommended that dividers be used so that no more than 30 market hogs are held in any section of the trailer during transport.

8.6.17

Under the Health of Animals Regulations, an animal that becomes injured, ill or otherwise unfit for transport during a journey must not continue to be transported beyond the nearest suitable place at which it can receive proper care and attention. In the event of injury or illness occurring in transit where no suitable facility is close by, it is recommended that every truck have the capacity to pen one or two pigs separately.

8.6.18

Loading of pigs can be more easily accomplished if pathways and ramps have no sharp turns that impede movement that may cause injury to the pigs. An ideal loading alley and ramp should be curved, have solid walls, be properly illuminated, and be flat. The ramp should not be steeper than 20°.

8.6.19

Loading docks should be level with the truck, but if the loading dock is not level with the truck, a ramp should be used or if necessary, the pig should step safely up into the truck rather than down.

8.6.20

In a truck, to avoid pigs piling up at the front, attendants should turn pigs around to face the door before trying to unload. Tilting the deck of a truck to force pigs to slide off is unacceptable.

8.6.21

Pigs of substantially different weights and ages must be penned separately during transportation and marketing. Cull sows over 170 kg (375 lbs ) must not be mixed with market hogs. Unfit pigs should be penned separately except as described in Section 6.

8.6.22

Pregnant sows should not be shipped to slaughter within 6 weeks of expected farrowing.

8.6.23

A sow with her suckling litter should not normally be transported. If transportation is necessary, the sow must be segregated from all other animals during transport and the litter must be protected appropriately.

Care and Protection During Hot Weather Transit

8.6.24

Pigs have a low tolerance for hot temperatures and high humidity.

8.6.25

Do not bed with straw or shavings in hot weather as this practice causes an increased heat buildup. If traction is poor, moist peat moss or sand can be used.

8.6.26

Ensure appropriate airflow through the vehicle. To protect pigs properly from the sun in the case of open-top trucks, use tarpaulins on the top only. Ensure ventilation from sides by not covering slats or openings with tarpaulins or other materials.

8.6.27

Load and unload promptly. Make as few stops as possible. Heat builds up rapidly inside a loaded vehicle that is standing still. If an unavoidable delay occurs, run water on the floor, look for a shaded area, or drive the truck around slowly until you can unload the pigs.

8.6.28

Schedule evening transport of pigs during hot weather to avoid traveling during the hottest hours or during rush hour traffic.

8.6.29

In case of breakdowns, accidents, or other delays, follow emergency procedures (Appendix 3).

Care and Protection During Cold Weather Transit

8.6.30

All categories of pigs are susceptible to cold stress during transport. Western Canada is at higher risk because of the temperature extremes and the distances travelled.

8.6.31

All vehicles used in cold weather [-100°C (14°F) and below] must have the ability to change the air movement in the swine compartment when loaded. For commercial trailers external sliding plastic panels are recommended. Most commercial trailer manufacturers provide an option of winterized trailers. Lining trailers with plywood can be useful but this technique does not allow for opening up of the trailer when the weather warms up.

8.6.32

For market hogs decrease the loading density during cold weather and increase the bedding. When market hogs are tightly packed they are unable to reposition themselves in the load in response to cold spots. Also, increasing the floor space per hog allows the pigs to lie down (huddle) to conserve heat and individuals will not be held against the internal wall of the trailer. In cold winter conditions a maximum of 250 kg/m² (52 lbs/sq. ft) is recommended.

8.6.33

Monitor the load closely during severe cold weather. If transported pigs start to eat the straw or shavings used for bedding the trailer may be too cold and the pigs may need additional protection.

Boars

8.6.34

Cull mature boars destined for slaughter can be aggressive with handlers and other swine. Mature boars should be segregated during transport and kept individually penned if possible. Boars must not be discouraged from fighting by hitting or bruising them on the nose. At times it may be necessary to use some force to keep boars from doing physical harm to each other; in these cases the handler must take appropriate corrective measures to prevent boars from doing physical harm to one another:

• arrange for all mature boars [over 135 kg (300 lbs) or those showing signs of tusks] to be detusked on the premises of origin prior to transport;
• pen all mature boars individually and mix them with others only immediately prior to shipping. Mix boars only with others of the same size;
• pull out aggressive boars and keep them separate;
• ensure that all transporters have sufficient partitions in the truck so that no more than 8-15 boars (depending on size) are grouped together;
• ensure that all transporters have at least one or two individual partitions in the truck available for aggressive or injured boars.

Iso-Weaned Pigs

8.6.35

Iso-weaned (also known as segregated early weaned) piglets are removed from the mother at between 14 and 21 days (16 day average) and usually transported to a nursery barn at least 5 kilometres distant. This practice prevents the transmission of several pathogenic bacteria from the sow to the piglet. Transportation of Iso-weaned pigs is a new challenge for the swine industry.

8.6.36

Iso-weaned piglets should not be transported more than 12 hours to the nursery facility.

8.6.37

Iso-weaned piglets can be humanely transported in small groups (25) in plastic containers in a manner similar to poultry. This method requires individual catching and handling of each piglet. Young pigs have fully developed herding and following instincts and usually herd easily. A maximum group size of 50 is recommended for Iso-weaned piglets in transit, primarily to minimize the time assembling and unloading each group. Well organized systems may facilitate the assembly and loading of up to 100 Iso-weaned piglets in a group.

8.6.38

Iso-weaned piglets are inspected at the US/Canadian border for herd identity and appropriate loading density. Veterinarians commonly use a startle test and resultant piglet behaviour to evaluate crowding. Sleeping piglets are abruptly awakened by a short noise. The alerted piglets move away from the noise and if 25% of the floor becomes visible the space allowance is usually adequate. Most of these piglets are travelling less than 6-8 hours.

Identification

8.6.39

Slapmarking (tattoo on the shoulder of a market hog) is the current method used where identification is required immediately prior to transporting. Minimal use of slapmarking is recommended. Herd specific tattoos and ear tags may be required for feeder pig export to the United States.

Devices for moving pigs

8.6.40

Devices for moving pigs include the following:

• Chase boards [about 1 m (3-ft) wide] are a preferred device for moving pigs. These are usually made of plywood or aluminum with handholds. The attendant can walk behind the pigs and keep them moving in the right direction.
• Canvas slappers are about 7.5-10 cm wide (3-4 in) applied to the hind end, they will start and keep pigs moving. Unnecessary force or a frozen slapper should not be used.
• Stock whips, if used against the sides of the alleys, cause noise that stimulates the pigs to move forward. Never use a whip on the pigs.
• Use of battery-operated electric prods should be kept to a minimum to avoid excitement. Never use high-voltage prods on pigs. If a pig lies down when prodded, do not continue prodding, let the animal calm down. Prods must not be used in the genital, anal, or facial areas. Use is to be restricted to the hindquarters of pigs when their way forward is clear.

8.6.41

These devices if used properly can help in moving pigs; however, devices used improperly are not acceptable. Only minimal use of any of these devices is recommended. Attendants must be patient and considerate. Sometimes the best move is to step back and let both the pig and the attendant calm down.

8.6.42

Use of any device, such as a cane, pipe, tattoo machine, or sharp instrument, as a prod or goad is not acceptable.

Space Requirements

8.6.43

Dividers are recommended so that no more than 30 market hogs or 50 feeder hogs are held in any section.

8.6.44

Do not exceed space allowance requirements as described in the charts in Appendix 2.

8.7

Poultry

8.7.1

All poultry do not have the same space requirements. Equipment specific to the species should be used. These guidelines emphasize the responsibilities of the poultry producer, the catching crew, and the transporter. They are intended to encourage humane, efficient, and considerate treatment of birds so that transport stress and injury are minimized at all stages of handling and transport.

8.7.2

Careless catching of birds is a common source of injury. Injured birds are particularly susceptible to transportation stress. This is inhumane and increases the loss of marketable product.

8.7.3

Piling of birds in corners can cause injury or mortality. Steps must be taken to prevent this from occurring.

8.7.4

The two most common procedures that facilitate easier catching of loose-housed birds are:

1. lowering the light intensity in the pen or using blue bulbs to provide adequate illumination for humans but not for poultry; and
2. corralling birds with a net or screen at the loading door.

8.7.5

Range birds can be loaded more easily by moving them in small groups.

8.7.6

Proper building design and accessibility to transport vehicles greatly improves the humane handling of loose-housed poultry. Owners and operators should ensure the following:

1. appropriate access to loading and unloading areas of poultry barns is provided;
2. loading and unloading areas and ramps are designed to permit proper bird handling;
3. building design discourages needless transfer of birds between handlers;
4. building design incorporates a door for every 15 m (49 ft) of building length, and doors on first, second, and third floors are not less than 120 cm wide (48 in) and not less than 200 cm (78 in) high; and,
5. when birds have to be handed through floor openings, the openings are not less than 1 m² (10 sq.ft.) for broilers and not less than 1.2m² (13 sq.ft.) for turkeys, and no obstructions, such as floor joists, hinder the transfer of birds.

8.7.7

When birds are transported in crates or bins, the design, construction available space and state of repair should allow the birds to be loaded, conveyed, and removed without injury. Birds should be loaded only into clean transporting crates and clean vehicles.

8.7.8

Crate doors and panels on liner trucks should be large enough to permit easy passage of birds, thus avoiding injury.

8.7.9

Construction of crates and bins should provide adequate, uniform ventilation but prevent protrusion of the head, wings and legs of birds.

8.7.10

When loaded into bins or crates, birds must be positioned on their feet to avoid smothering.

8.7.11

The number of birds per crate or bin depends on available floor space, body size of birds, and prevailing environmental conditions at time of transport. Maximum density per crate or bin should permit all birds to rest on the floor at the same time if they are evenly distributed. Birds should be able to move their heads freely when sitting on the floor.

8.7.12

Covers should be used to protect birds in crates from wind, rain, and adverse weather conditions.

8.7.13

When birds are being transported in crates or bins, the driver should check the load and surrounding area for loose birds before departing.

8.7.14

Birds should be protected from getting wet. During loading they should be protected from sources of heat and steam to minimize the effect of exposure to a sudden drop in temperature.

8.7.15

Eavestroughs should be continuous across loading areas to prevent birds from getting wet during transfer from building to truck during a rainstorm.

8.7.16

Ideally, crates with live birds should be moved in a horizontal position. If a conveyor is used for loading crates of live birds, the conveyor angle should prevent tilting of crates that causes birds to pile up. Crates should not be thrown or dropped. They should be moved smoothly during loading, transport, and unloading.

8.7.17

One possible way to alleviate catching and loading problems and to avoid the potential for damage to the birds, is to collect the birds mechanically. Producers, catchers, and transporters should keep themselves informed of new technology. Only devices proven to be humane should be considered for use in gathering birds.

8.7.18

Loading of poultry is usually done by manual capture and lifting of the bird. This process happens under subdued lighting while the animals are at rest

8.7.19

Producers are responsible for ensuring proper interior and exterior design of buildings to facilitate loading and unloading of poultry.

8.7.20

In caged layer barns, cross conveyors should not be installed in such a way as to impede the flow of birds in carts travelling directly into or out of the barn via the proper loading doors. Where it is necessary to block the cage rows at the loading end, proper access must be given to the opposite end of the cage rows.

8.7.21

Weather conditions should be considered when determining load densities. For growing and adult birds, the recommended maximum live weight loading densities for crates and bins in cold weather are as follows:

Chickens: 63 kg/m² (139 lbs/10 sq. ft.)
Broiler Turkeys: 98 kg/m² (216 lbs/10 sq. ft.)
Heavy Hens: 98 kg/m² (216 lbs/10 sq. ft.)
Heavy Toms: 98 kg/m² (216 lbs/10 sq. ft.)

Source: Recommended Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Poultry from Hatchery to Processing Plant (1989). 

8.7.22

These maximum values are recommended for winter conditions and should be reduced during summer. On hot summer days, loading of turkeys at midday should be avoided. When temperature exceeds 32°C (90°F), birds should not be loaded unless they are scheduled for same-day delivery.

8.7.23

The driver of the vehicle is responsible for the care and welfare of all birds during transport. The driver should take into consideration climatic conditions and should adjust coverings to allow birds to warm up or cool off, as required.

Feed and Water During Transport

8.7.24

For young poultry (chicks) consumption of feed and water during transport is not always easy to arrange. It is noted, however, that some options are available, for example, the recently developed fluid or water matrix product for chicks.

8.8

Sheep

8.8.1

Sheep should not be loaded or unloaded in such a manner as to cause injury or avoidable suffering.

8.8.2

Because of their small size, sheep and lambs are sometimes lifted by grasping them around the body and placing them in a transport vehicle. This is acceptable providing it is done with care and the sheep or lamb is not handled in a rough manner. The animal should be lifted by supporting its chest and abdomen and not by its fleece, head, horns, ears or legs.

8.8.3

Sheep should not be rushed during loading and unloading. Sheep have a strong tendency to follow each other and to maintain both visual and body contact. Gently encourage the lead animal to enter the chute or ramp and others will generally follow.

8.8.4

Young and recently shorn sheep are particularly susceptible to frostbite and loss of body heat during transport.

8.8.5

Frequency and length of stops where sheep are not offloaded should be kept to a minimum during transit to prevent rapid buildup of heat inside the vehicle.

8.8.6

Shorn sheep should be protected from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent sunburn.

8.8.7

In hot weather, sheep should be handled particularly carefully because physical activity increases heat stress. Every animal should be treated with extreme patience and should be allowed to rest when overexerted. Wide temperature fluctuations between day and night also increase stress.

8.9

Diversified Livestock

Information on transportation of livestock species not included in this code can be obtained by contacting Canadian Food Inspection Agency regional offices.

Information on transportation of mink and ranched fox is contained in the Recommended Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Mink (Agriculture Canada Publication 1819) and the Recommended Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Ranched Fox (Agriculture Canada Publication 1831), available from: Communications Branch, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0C5.

The long range plan for completion of new codes of practice is:

For further information on code development and national industry organizations contact the Canadian Agri-Food Research Council.

1. an animal which lacks strength, co-ordination, or ability such that the individual is unable to keep abreast of normal animals at a walk, or it is unsafe for the animal to walk as a result of an abnormal physical or medical condition;
2. a previously healthy animal which has been exposed to physical challenges in excess of the animal’s ability to physiologically compensate; as in hyperthermia or hypothermia.

1.

Check for injured persons.

2.

Evaluate the livestock truck, try to identify the types of animal and numbers carried.

3.

Perform crowd control, traffic direction, maintain a clear path for and assist emergency vehicles. Keep unnecessary people away from the accident site.

4.

If rescue of people is involved, avoid using sirens and lights as much as possible near live animals. If traffic controls such as police vehicles with flashing lights or flares are necessary, they should be set up as far from the animals as possible.

5.

Always deal with loose, mobile animals first. Such animals will be frightened, disoriented and excited. Frightened animals are unpredictable and will react instinctively by running or fighting. If possible, allow them to calm down before trying to move them.

6.

It is very important to remain calm and quiet. Take your time and be patient. Stay alert, you may need to move quickly. Always have an escape route for yourself. Any animal is potentially dangerous.

7.

Once the loose animals have quieted down:

• DO NOT shout, yell or wave arms wildly;
• DO NOT approach an animal from directly in front unless you must protect an injured person; 
• move animals to a safe area slowly and in a group;
• move slowly toward the animals from the rear half of the animal, and slightly to one side. Once you are in the animal's personal space (flight zone) it will move forward. Move back outside the flight zone to stop forward movement. If you enter the flight zone too deeply, or too quickly, the animal will try to run - you do not want this. This space may be 15 feet or more from the animal; and,
• animals may be temporarily penned with portable fencing, snow fencing, trucks, yellow police tape (which resembles electric fencing), or at sales yards, factory yards, well-constructed sheds, etc.

8.

Deal with conscious, badly injured animals second. Keep people away. Injured animals are less likely to struggle to their feet if left alone.

9.

To quiet a struggling injured animal which is lying down (e.g. broken leg), place a blanket over its eyes, leaving the nostrils exposed, and press down lightly on the neck just behind the head with a knee. Talking to the animal in a calm, quiet voice and gently stroking or scratching it may also help.

10.

Comatose animals are not aware of any pain and may be left for last. Animals lying down with seizures or paddling of the legs may indicate serious head injuries. Unless these animals show signs of regaining consciousness, such as lifting the head, looking about, or trying to rise, they may be left.

11.

If a comatose animal does not blink when the clear part of the eye is touched, it may be dead. Check for breathing by positioning yourself at the animal's back, near the shoulder and place a hand on the chest.

12.

Spilled animal fluids and body fat may result in hazardous road conditions.

13.

Injured animals may bite, particularly horses and pigs. Such animals should be muzzled by some method such as a bridle, rope, belt, etc.

14.

All animals may kick, bite or attack if frightened or injured.

15.

Diversified livestock species such as bison, deer, elk, wild boar, emu, ostrich, mink, foxes, and others present additional complexities in an emergency situation. Many of these species retain and exhibit “wild behaviour traits” and are more likely to respond with “fright, flight, or fight” reactions in situations of close contact. The flight zone is typically much larger for these species than for more traditional livestock and their reactions to intrusion in that flight zone may be much more violent. 

Bison handle like wild, athletic cattle, with a strong herd instinct and an aggressive attitude. They need plenty of space and options for movement. Deer vary substantially in behaviour of the different ages, genders, breeds, and at different times of the year. Generally, males are in hard antler and are most aggressive during the breeding season, from September through November. The larger the animal, the morelikely they are to fight with antlers or kick or strike with their hind and front hooves. Smaller deer are more likely to take flight and their ability to leap can be quite spectacular.

Wild boar will usually choose flight if an avenue of escape is available, but they may attack and bite if cornered. This species is much more athletic than most farmed pigs.

Ostrich and emu appear similar, but their nature is quite different. Emu are more manageable and behave more like a herd animal than do ostrich. Ostrich can be aggressive, and can kick or strike with tremendous force in close quarters. Both species may be slowly and carefully herded.

Furbearers such as mink and foxes are usually transported as breeding stock in separate cages. Because of their more “wild” nature, all of these species are more susceptible to stress. To minimize this concern in emergency situations, use the following techniques:

• crowd control must be a top priority to avoid injuries to both the animals and people;
• avoid the use of bright or flashing lights, sirens or loudspeakers. All excited animals handle more easily and remain more calm in conditions of reduced lighting and soft noises;
• call for expert advice and assistance. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency may be able to identify someone locally with experience in handling the specific type of animals involved.

1.

Ensure loose animals are under control in as secure a manner as possible. Assign someone to watch them to report problems and keep people from approaching them without authorization.

2.

Advise police of assistance available, on call, or already at the scene such as veterinarians, department of agriculture staff or humane society/SPCA officers. Assist as required with evacuation, crowd control, and traffic direction.

3.

Assist police to control bystanders, vehicle and pedestrian traffic to ensure that animals are not disturbed unnecessarily.

4.

Notify trucking company dispatcher, owner and/or receiver to obtain direction. Make arrangements for trucking or have surviving animals moved to a safe location. Loose animals may be moved into a nearby well-fenced enclosure, a well-constructed barn or shed, or onto another vehicle if their injuries are not severe. Temporary strong enclosures are acceptable. Nearby fenced manufacturing premises may also be suitable temporarily. The idea is to confine the loose animals so that people in the area are protected from injury.

5.

Seriously injured animals must be examined by a veterinarian if at all possible. Animals in serious pain or with untreatable injuries may need to be euthanized. Recommended methods for euthanasia of mammals in order of preference are administration of a euthanizing drug by a veterinarian; stunning with a captive bolt pistol followed by slitting of the throat performed by experienced personnel; gunshot euthanasia performed by an experienced police officer, conservation officer or SPCA special constable. Gunshot euthanasia is a dangerous procedure and must only be performed as a last resort under controlled conditions (See Appendix 4).

Organization

Representative

Aaron Metzger Limited

W. Metzger

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

S.K. Ho

Brian’s Poultry Services Ltd

B. Herman

Canadian Cattlemen’s Association

R. Dobson

H. Graham

P. Strankman

Canadian Council on Animal Care

J. Wong

Canadian Federation of Humane Societies

J. Ripley

F. Rodenburg

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

G. Doonan

R. Sauder

Canadian Mink Breeders Association

H. Freeman

Canadian Pork Council

S. Fortin

M. Rice

W. Vaags

Canadian Poultry and Egg Processors Council

M. Pelletier

Canadian Sheep Federation

R. Stern

Canadian Society of Agricultural Engineering

J. Feddes

Canadian Society of Animal Science

A-M. de Passillé

A. Schaefer (Chair)

Canadian Turkey Marketing Agency

S. Singh

Canadian Venison Council

D. Smith

I. Thorleifson

Canadian Veterinary Medical Association

A. Preston

D & D Livestock Trucking

D. Heatherington

D.A.C. Checker Produce Limited

C. Scherders

Dairy Farmers of Canada

D. Beggs

P. Maclean

Heartland Livestock Services

D. Darroch

Manitoba Agriculture and Food

T. Whiting

Ontario Veal Association

J. Haley