A standard culling protocol is developed. This protocol is reviewed periodically following feedback from packers and buyers. Standard culling protocols may include: information on reasons for culling; marketing decisions for immediate sale; feeding strategies until cull prices peak (depends on feed availability and cost); and animal handling for specific conditions (e.g., cancer eyes, nonambulatory animals).

Sick, Injured or Distressed Animals in Cow-Calf Operations.

A protocol for nonambulatory animals as well as an on-farm euthanasia policy is developed.

Records are maintained on culling decisions and disposition of culls (feedback from packer). Animal history records accompany cull cattle at sale time.

Bulls are culled for unsatisfactory breeding soundness, physical defects, poor body condition, trichonomiasis, and chronic disease.

Cows are culled for disease, cancer eye, production inefficiency, poor maternal behaviour, bad feet and legs, inadequate body condition score (BCS), lack of teeth, wild temperament, mastitis, udder defects, infertility (open or late), etc.

Culls are sold in a timely manner and when in good body condition. If this is not possible, they are fed until in good body condition or humanely euthanized at home, especially if nonambulatory.

Dead animals are disposed of by burial, rendering or burning according to provincial and municipality bylaws.

Animal health product withdrawal periods are checked and followed to ensure all cattle are free of residues prior to shipment.