Ann Thompson: Is your bobby calf fit for transport?

Farmers face new bobby-calf regulations this season.

All dairy farmers should know by now they will be facing new regulations to manage the welfare of bobby calves this season.

They should understand that in all probability they are already following these regulations as they are based on the standards in the 2010 Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare.

The main difference is that now regulations are enforceable.

So what is expected this spring?

Bobby calves should be cared for in much the same manner as their heifer calf sisters. However, on the day they turn four days old, they can expect to be closely inspected if travelling.

Farmers will look to see that these calves are free of disease, deformity or disability, are able to stand on all four feet and move about freely.

They need to have firm hooves that are worn flat and have a navel that is wrinkled, withered and shrivelled. All these are indications the calf is at least four days old and fit to travel.

Farmers will need to have processes in place so that their calf rearers understand what's required.

On the day of travel, bobbies should be fed at least half the day's ration of colostrum (or colostrum substitute) not more than two hours before pick-up.

This means that farmers are going to have to talk with their transport operator to find out what time they are due.

They also need to talk to the processor in case of other feed requirements.

Bobbies must not be fed any colostrum or milk from cows that have been treated with antibiotics if the withholding period still applies. Carcases are tested at the works and penalties are high if residues are found.

Bobbies awaiting pick-up need to be kept in a sheltered pen off the main road, where it's easy for loading.

A loading facility will be required by August 2017 but, if you can have one ready, good. Lifting calves and placing them onto the truck is hard work, especially when you do it all day.

For those bobbies not fit for transport, it is against the law to kill them by blunt-force trauma except in emergency situations.

Federated Farmers recommends the use of a captive bolt, a firearm or a vet-administered injection.

The Ministry for Primary Industries is keen to talk to your community about the new regulations - email animalwelfarepolicy@mpi.govt.nz.

- Ann Thompson is a Federated Farmers dairy policy Adviser