Livestock Handling and Transport

Book excerpt: This book brings together the latest research data and practical information on animal handling, restraint methods and the design of facilities and transport. Published 14 years after the first edition, the third edition is fully updated with the latest research findings. An extensively revised introductory chapter covers the increasing awareness of animal welfare around the world and outlines the effective auditing programmes of large, corporate meat buyers. Three new authors have chapters on sheep transport, biosecurity and low-stress methods for sorting cattle and weaning calves. To provide an additional perspective on livestock management in South America, Asia, India and other regions, two new co-authors have been added to the chapters on cattle transport and the handling of cattle raised in close association with people. The best of the old material - including all the popular handling system layouts and behaviour diagrams - has been kept. All aspects of animal handling are covered, such as handling for veterinary and husbandry procedures, stress physiology, restraint methods, transport, corral and stockyard design, handling at slaughter plants and welfare. The principles of animal behaviour are covered for cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, deer and poultry. The extensive reference lists in each chapter will help preserve important knowledge that may not be available on the Internet. Also, at the end of the book is an index of useful web pages on handling, behaviour and transport. This book is an invaluable resource for students and professionals in animal behaviour, applied psychology and animal and veterinary sciences, and livestock producers, regulatory bodies and animal welfare groups.