Cattle loaded for export to China
A ship carrying more than 3000 live cattle bound for China was due to depart the Port of Timaru overnight.
The Ganado Express docked on Monday to pick up 3164 dairy heifers and other breeding cattle.
Ministry for Primary Industries spokesman Leigh Strange said the actual number could be fewer.
‘‘The final number exported is determined by the exporter, in conjunction with a MPI veterinarian, at the time of loading.
"The MPI veterinarian will issue the AWEC (Animal Welfare Export Certificate) after inspecting the loaded animals and being satisfied the conditions have been complied with, or satisfactory arrangements have been made to comply with them.’’
Strange said livestock exported can only be for breeding. ‘‘We are not able to advise the source of the cattle – often a shipment will have stock from more than one farm.
‘‘We don’t hold information on the commercial arrangements for a particular shipment.’’
According tho the MPI website, animals must be given the right amounts of water, food, space and facilities.
‘‘Medicines and equipment for treating any animals that become unwell during the journey must also be on hand,’’ it said.
‘‘People experienced in handling animals must be on board.’’
Media manager at Safe for Animals Will Appelbe said the animals suffered greatly during voyages such as this one.
‘‘The cattle suffer significant issues such as dehydration and heat exhaustion during the voyage.
‘‘There is even evidence that sheep and cows suffer from seasickness like humans.’’
He claimed that once the animals arrive at their destination, they are not tracked and eventually get slaughtered.