A mobile app that helps farmers, transporters, stock agents and veterinarians determine whether an animal is fit for transport has been launched.
Developed by the Ministry of Primary Industries with industry and vets, the app consolidates available information in to one place and doesn't require internet access, which makes it suitable for on-farm use.
The ministry's Director of Verification Services, Dr Chris Kebbell, said most people in the primary sectors were well aware of the fitness for transport requirements, but MPI veterinarians at processing plants still saw some animals arrive that should not have been transported.
"Animal welfare is everyone's responsibility and farmers, transporters, stock agents and veterinarians all have a role to play in ensuring only fit animals are transported."
"The information in the app is based on the transport requirements in the codes of welfare for dairy cattle, deer, sheep and beef cattle."
The app also contains the requirements for the recently implemented regulations for young calves.
New fitness for transport regulations are currently under development and the app will be updated once they are implemented.
To download the app, head to iTunes or Google Play and search 'fit for transport.'