Rules for the care and handling of sheep to be updated

The Canadian Sheep Federation (CSF) is updating the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Sheep.

The update will be guided by National Farm Animal Care Council’s (NFACC) code development process which includes a survey of the most important welfare concerns from stakeholders.

The input received will help the Code Development Committee understand the issues people want in the update.

CSF Board member and Code Committee Chair Fred Baker said Canadian sheep farmers are dedicated to providing the best life possible for all classes of sheep in their care.

He said with emerging technologies and changes to production practices, it is time to use a science informed process to revise and rewrite the code.

“The Canadian Sheep Federation looks forward to working with our partners at NFACC to create a new Code to guide our industry in the production of market lambs, breeding stock, milk and wool for the next decade,” Baker said.

Canada’s Codes of Practice provides guidance for the care and handling of farm animals and understanding of animal care requirements and recommended practices. It also serves as educational tools, reference materials for regulations, and the foundation for farm animal care assessment programs.

NFACC Chair Hans Kristensen said the code development process supports people with varied views on animal welfare to come together with a shared commitment and common goal of achievable advances in farm animal welfare.

“Codes of Practice support progress in animal welfare and the sustainability of Canadian animal agriculture,” he said.

Five codes – beef cattle, equine, pig, sheep, and poultry – are being updated. The pullet and layer code is being amended.