Animal Welfare
Duty to Care
Everyone has the moral obligation to treat all animals humanely. It is not acceptable to allow animals to suffer as a result of deliberate ill treatment, neglect or poor management practices.
The Federation promotes sound farm management and animal welfare practices.
Open Trade Access
As a major producer and exporter of animals and animal products, New Zealand needs to keep in mind the growing domestic and international consumer consciousness and concern about animal welfare. Previously acceptable practices are now being reassessed and changed with new knowledge and changing attitudes to more readily fit the world in which we live.
Maintaining open trade access is critical to the New Zealand farming community. The Federation will insist that any trade sanction based on animal welfare is backed up by scientific analysis.
Partnerships in Animal Welfare
The Federation promotes partnerships with other parties interested in animal welfare such as the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee and the SPCA.
Codes of Practice
Farmers have the responsibility to adhere to animal welfare legislation and its codes of practice and to train their staff how to care for animals properly.
Research and Breeding
The Federation believes that the breeding of an animal for desirable traits should not compromise its welfare. We encourage research that leads to improved animal welfare and selective breeding that will enhance animal welfare.
Spokesman For Animal Welfare
National Board member Lachlan McKenzie speaks for farmers on animal welfare. Lachlan is on the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee.
You can contact Lachlan on 07 332 3440, 021 382 442 or lmckenzie@fedfarm.org.nz.
