Guidelines for humane handling, transport and slaughter of

60
Guidelines for humane handling, transport and slaughter of livestock
Fig. 55:
Mushroom
bolt stun
gun
For effective stunning, it is important that the
operator is well trained in its use of the stunning
gun. If the operator becomes fatigued, accuracy
of stunning is reduced, so in large plants, rotation
of two stunners is recommended. Stunning of
bigger pigs may require a stronger cartridge, as
the sinus cavities of the skull are larger. Large
bulls have a bony ridge in the forehead and
penetration may be more difficult, requiring offcentre
aim. A captive bolt gun is not suitable for
stunning ostriches. Their brain is small and
lobulated, and the bolt does not produce proper
concussion.
Gunshot
In circumstances where animals are too fractious
to be handled in the normal way, such as when
they cannot be loaded on the farm or led into the
stunning restraint, gunshot with a free, soft-nosed
bullet is effective. A 22-calibre bullet is sufficient
for most animals. Shooting with a free bullet can
be dangerous to operators. If the animal is to be
slaughtered on a farm, it should be accurately shot