Humane disposal of infant calves and possible outlets
(for England and Wales)
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On farm slaughter - infant calves must be killed humanely, and without avoidable excitement, pain and suffering.
Calves killed on farm within 36 hours of birth (dairy), 20 days of birth (non-dairy), do not require ear tags or passports, however their births and deaths must be notified to the British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS).
Firearms suitable for the on-farm killing of calves are as follows: rifles, shotguns, humane killers and captive bolt guns. Please note that carcases must be disposed of in accordance with the Animal By-Products Regulations 2005.
