Use of 'thoracic stick' in halal slaughter of bobby calves

Authors: Delany M, Leigh P
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 35, Issue 8, pp 124-125, Aug 1987
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Animal welfare, Circulatory system/haematology, Animal handling, Slaughter
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: Throat cutting associated with halal slaughter of bobby calves fails to sever the vertebral arteries supplying the brain. Such slaughter may be inhumane due to calves recovering from the stun before permanent insensibility, due to blood loss, occurs. Interruption of the vertebral arteries may be achieved by severance of the brachiocephalic trunk or penetration of the heart by the use of a `thoracic stick`, an incision with a knife through the thoracic inlet.

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