Farmers pitch in to catch stock

Federated Farmers is urging the rural community to keep an eye on their neighbours' livestock after the shock discovery of dozens of malnourished cattle on a farm near Opiki.

In a show of community spirit, Manawatu's farmers joined forces with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to remove about 90 cattle from the farm after the elderly owner inadvertently let the state of his stock slip.

Manawatu-Rangitikei Federated Farmers president Gordon McKellar said the farmer was no longer capable of caring for all the animals, leaving the livestock starving and suffering from worms, forcing MAF to euthanise a third of the cattle.

"It was a bit of a shock to see all the animals suffering," he said. "They had not been handled much so it was quite dangerous."

A group of more than 10 farmers, police officers, and volunteers rounded up the wild cattle.

The biggest threat to volunteers was bulls charging them, particularly because the cattle were wild and Jersey-breed, which are renowned for being dangerous, Mr McKellar said.

The volunteers showed "outstanding community support" by sparing precious time during the hectic lambing and calving season to help out.

It took a day to shift the livestock off the farm.

Mr McKellar urged the rural community to report any cases of neglect or mistreatment of animals.

MAF animal welfare investigations team manager Alan Wilson said they were notified of the animals being in poor condition, and instructed the owner to take steps to rectify issues.

The farmer did not comply with an enforcement order issued by the District Court.

"The court then issued an order for MAF to step in and comply with the original enforcement order on behalf of the owner," Mr Wilson said.

All the animals were removed for veterinary assessment and treatment if necessary.

"Following this, a number were returned to the owner, a number were destroyed on humane grounds and a number were sold," he said.

MAF often gets involved in similar cases, however, it was unusual to have to use the enforcement order process to resolve it, Mr Wilson said.

He thanked Federated Farmers and skilled local volunteers.

"Animal welfare is everyone's responsibility and it is fundamental that everyone plays a part whether that be by reporting cases, assisting to resolve issues, or playing a supportive education role."

To report an animal welfare issue call MAF on 0800 008 333

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