Killing of animals for disease control purposes.

In emergency disease outbreaks, large numbers of animals may need to be killed for control, containment and/or eradication purposes. Strategies for disease control will usually involve complete depopulation of herds/flocks, and may extend to depopulation across designated areas. Live animals present the major risk of spreading infectious agents so their slaughter should be completed as quickly as possible, with minimal pain and distress to the animals. The method chosen for killing of animals must be humane, efficient and safe for people and the environment. The tasks should be conducted under the supervision of an official veterinarian, supported by a sufficient number of adequately trained and competent personnel. It is essential to ensure all animals are dead, as demonstrated by the cessation of cardiac and respiratory movements. This paper discusses methods by which animals may be killed for disease control purposes.