A. Animals retained at the slaughterhouse should be slaughtered as soon as possible. Those retained over the weekend of 24-25 February must be given adequate space and be fed and watered. Sufficient bedding must be provided. The animals should be checked regularly over the weekend for signs of disease. A. Stocking densities should ensure that the animals can lie down comfortably and can reach supplies of food and water without difficulty.
Substantial bedding can improve comfort and reduce aggression.
Where possible animals, particularly pigs, from different farms should not be held in the same pen. It is preferable that the animals be slaughtered as soon as possible after arrival at the slaughterhouse. However, they may be held provided they are not uncomfortably overcrowded, that they receive food and water at regular intervals and they are inspected regularly, preferably at least twice a day. If any animal shows signs of disease the Official Veterinary Surgeon must be consulted, if this is not possible the local Divisional Veterinary Manager must be informed. The occupier of the slaughterhouse must ensure that at all times when there are animals on the premises a person is available who is competent, and has the authority to take whatever action may be necessary to safeguard the welfare of the animals.