Following the article by Food For Mzansi on the struggle of pig farmers in the Eastern Cape, experts in the livestock industry and health scientists have warned that malnutrition in any livestock is a violation of the law and farmers need to take full responsibility for the condition of their livestock.
All livestock farmers are encouraged to keep their animals healthy and in good condition with healthy livestock feed. Legally, if farmers fail to do so, farmers will be charged with malpractice and given a fine.
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Farmers’ responsibility towards their livestock
South African Poultry Producers head veterinarian Dr Thandi Chiapero said failure by farmers to ensure that their livestock are in good condition could lead to law enforcement invoking the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
The act explains that denying water or food to any animal, being the owner of any animal who deliberately or negligently keeps such animal in a dirty or parasitic condition, or allows it to become infested with external parasites, or fails to render or procure veterinary services, is illegal.
Chiapero said farmers, whether commercial or small-scale, need to familiarise themselves with the acceptable conditions in which the pigs need to live.
“The fine will not be exceeding R4 000, or in default of payment to imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months or to such imprisonment without the option of a fine.
“The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), nationally and regionally, inspects farms and can involve the South African Police Services if needed. Any person who becomes aware of such neglect is encouraged to report this to the SPCA,” she said.
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What animals need to be healthy
Meanwhile, animal scientist Kireshni Naiker said farmers must ensure that their animals receive a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Naiker explained that includes providing appropriate amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
“In production animals, their different growth phases require a specific nutrition requirement in order for them to reach their potential, for example in milk and meat production.
“Compromising nutrition at any of these phases compromises the animal’s growth and production potential which can also lead to a range of health concerns,” she said.
Naiker added that animals always need access to clean and fresh water. She urged farmers to ensure that water sources are regularly checked and maintained to prevent contamination.
“Farmers should monitor the health of their animals regularly. This includes observing for signs of illness or distress, such as changes in behaviour, appetite, or appearance. Regular veterinary check-ups are also important for preventive care and early detection of health issues,” she said.
According to Naiker, farmers should be able to see red flags on their farms regarding animal health and nutrition.
“Farmers should work with veterinarians to develop vaccination programmes tailored to the specific needs of their animals and the prevalent diseases in their area. Preventive measures such as proper sanitation, biosecurity protocols, and quarantine procedures should also be implemented to reduce the risk of disease transmission, Naiker said.
Maintain good animal nutrition
Naiker said farmers play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of their animals through proper nutrition, healthcare, and management practices. She added that farmers can get into trouble in terms of malnutrition in their animals for several reasons, leading to various consequences.
“It is important to point out that malnutrition in animals can have significant welfare and economic implications for farmers, emphasising the importance of proper nutrition management in livestock production systems can never be over-stressed,” Naiker said.
Consequences of not looking after animals
Naiker listed the various consequences that could lead to farming operations being closed up by law enforcement agencies and can lead to threats to biosecurity:
- Inadequate feeding practices: If farmers fail to provide their animals with a balanced diet containing essential nutrients, malnutrition can occur. This might happen due to a lack of knowledge about nutritional requirements, improper feed formulation, or economic constraints leading to cost-cutting measures.
- Poor quality feed: The use of low-quality feed or forage that lacks sufficient nutrients can result in malnutrition. This may happen when farmers rely on poor-quality crop residues, feed-stuffs contaminated with toxins or moulds, or expired feed.
- Feed shortages: During periods of drought, natural disasters, or economic downturns, farmers may face feed shortages, forcing them to reduce the quantity or quality of feed provided to their animals. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and malnutrition if not managed properly.
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