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Euthanasia Action Plan for Sheep and Goats

Author: Gerrit Rietveld - Animal Care Specialist/OMAFRA
Creation Date: 30 October 2003
Last Reviewed: 16 May 2008

Work with your veterinarian to develop a euthanasia action plan appropriate for each species and stage of production on your farm. This plan should be kept in an obvious location in the barn. Review the plan with any new employees and annually with all staff and your veterinarian.

Farm Name: ________________________________________________________

Date: ____________________ Prepared by: ______________________________

 

Phase of Production Euthanasia Method Alternative Method

Lambs and Kids

 

    

Ewes and Does

 

    

Rams and Bucks

 

    

Important Telephone Numbers:

  1. Veterinarian: _______________________________________________________

    Phone: ___________________________________________________________

    After Hours/Emergency: ______________________________________________

  2. Transporter: _______________________________________________________

    Phone: ___________________________________________________________

  3. Non-ambulatory Transporter: __________________________________________

    Phone: ___________________________________________________________

 

***************

Adapted from Ontario Pork's booklet On-Farm Euthanasia of Swine: Options for the Producer

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Methods of On-farm Euthanasia and Their Considerations
Method
 Human Safety Animal Welfare Skills Required Cost Other
Overdose by Barbiturate
Intravenous administration of a barbiturate
Restrain the animal
Excellent rating

Proper technique for intravenous injection
Veterinary fee
Can only be administered by licenced veterinarian
Penetrating Captive Bolt
Penetration of the skull and brain by captive bolt, followed with bleed-out by cutting all the main arteries and veins in the neck

Restrain the animal

Be cautious of falling or thrashing animals

Good rating

Correct cartridge strength, target site and penetration angle on animal is essential


Correct and safe use of captive bolt pistol

Correct and safe use of sharp knife
Low - after purchase of captive bolt pistol

Results in some body movement

Results in large volume of blood that requires proper disposal
Gunshot

Penetration of the skull and brain by bullet

Restrain the animal

Be cautious of falling or thrashing animals

Be extremely cautious about bullet ricochet

Good rating

Correct size of firearm and ammunition, and correct target site and penetration angle on animal is essential
Correct and safe use of firearm
Low - after purchase of firearm

Results in some body movement and blood

Requires firearm acquisition certificate

Local by-laws may prohibit the use of firearms


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For more information:
Toll Free: 1-877-424-1300
Local: (519) 826-4047
E-mail: ag.info.omafra@ontario.ca