Animal Welfare Risks in Live Cattle Export from Australia to China by Sea

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Welfare Science
• Agricultural Economics

Background:

• Concerns exist regarding animal welfare in Australia's live export trade by sea.
• Independent reporting on animal welfare during voyages has been limited.
• Long cattle voyages from Australia to China raised specific welfare concerns due to duration and inconsistent veterinary oversight.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze animal welfare conditions on live cattle export voyages from Australia to China.
• To identify key risk factors affecting animal welfare during these voyages using Independent Observer reports.

Main Methods:

• Review of Independent Observer (IO) report summaries from the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR).
• Analysis of 37 live cattle export voyages from July 2018 to December 2019.
• Examination of data for 147,262 cattle (slaughter, feeder, breeder; dairy and beef breeds).

Main Results:

• Voyages averaged 20 days, departing Fremantle/Portland and discharging in northern China.
• Identified welfare risks included hunger, thirst, extreme temperatures, poor pen conditions, and health issues.
• Other identified risks: absence of veterinarians, rough seas, ship infrastructure problems, mechanical breakdowns, and discharge mismanagement.

Conclusions:

• Independent Observer reports provide crucial data on live export animal welfare.
• Significant welfare risks persist on long-haul cattle voyages to China.
• Addressing identified risk factors is essential for improving animal welfare in the live export trade.