Dairy NZ

From the MAF Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare* : Minimum Standard 18 - Pre-transport Selection

1. The person in charge must examine the selected dairy cattle, prior to transport, to ensure that all animals are fit and healthy for transportation
2. All dairy cattle must be able to stand and bear weight on all four limbs and be fit enough to withstand the journey without suffering unreasonable or unnecessary pain or distress
3. Any animal likely to give birth during transport must not be selected.

Animals must not be transported if they display any injuries, signs of disease, abnormal behaviour or physical abnormalities that could compromise their welfare during the journey, unless a current veterinary certificate as to the fitness of the animal for transport is completed.

How to assess an animal's fitness for transport?

Animals with a BCS below 3 are subject to transport restrictions; use the following chart to help you decide if your animal is fit for transport.

Note: This chart is only a guide and does not guarantee acceptance of livestock for transport or processing.

* For further information on the Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare contact DairyNZ on 0800 4 DAIRYNZ (0800 4 324 7969)

Click here to view examples of Jersey, Crossbred and Friesian cows with different BCSs.