Today, Eyes on Animals gave a two-hour presentation to 40–50 veterinarians from the Kassel district in Germany. This region has a very high density of poultry farming. Precisely for that reason, it is crucial that veterinarians and inspectors are well trained in recognizing and improving poultry welfare during catching, loading, transport, and upon arrival at the slaughterhouse. We discussed, among other topics:
- Upright catching of chickens (Eyes on Animals method) versus leg catching (conventional method)
- Design and condition of transport crates and containers
- Heat and cold stress during transport and waiting times at the slaughterhouse
- Fitness for transport: which chickens may or may not be transported
- Working methods of the Dutch competent authority (NVWA)
- Recent court rulings
- Areas for improvement in enforcement
The strong interest in making progress in the Kassel region is encouraging. The veterinarians were very engaged and asked many questions.
