Welfare code for goats launched
A new welfare code for goats was launched last month by the Ministry of Agriculture, setting out minimum standards of care and recommended best practices for husbandry, care and handling.
The Animal Welfare (Goats) Code of Welfare 2011 was developed by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC), which includes Federated Farmers concerns the welfare of all goats farmed for milk, meat and fibre, for controlling weeds, or kept for display or domestic purposes. It does not apply to feral goats, except where they have been captured.
Federated Farmers Goats Industry Group manager Bob Douglas says the welfare code is a significant step in helping all goat owners ensure their animals are appropriately looked after.
Copies of the code were given to delegates at the goats' conference this month. Additional copies can be found online at www.biosecurity.govt.nz/regs/animal-welfare or by emailing animalwelfare@maf.govt.nz.
