Written protocols should be in place and reviewed annually with your veterinarian and employees to ensure that certain procedures are carried out appropriately.

How to assess:

Review the animal handling protocol to confirm that the following information is included and that appropriate criteria are being met:

Validus

• Employees trained in animal handling and appropriate tools for movement (flags, gates, flight zones)
• Employees are trained on moving/restraint devices (halters, headlocks, chutes)
• Animals move calmly throughout the audit
• Written protocol gives clear directives to not break tails or twist ears when moving animals
• Only approved handling tools are used during loading and unloading
• Prods are only used in emergencies to move animals and are never used in sensitive areas
• Loading facilities (gates, chutes) are maintained to be safe for livestock and caretakers, and have non-slip footing