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Livestock Welfare INSIGHTS Issue 2 - Jan 02 MANDATORY FOR 2001 VELVET ANTLER REMOVAL CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Don Bamber, past-president of AEA says the program was developed for two reasons: a proactive measure to deal with public concerns on humaneness and to deal with the legality of antler removal. Unlike some farm animal management practices, such as dehorning or castration, velvet antler removal was not specifically exempt from requiring a veterinarian under the Veterinary Profession Act. Dr. Duane Landals, AVMA Registrar, explains that, "as velvet antler removal is the amputation of living tissue, it is considered surgery, "therefore falling under the Act. The presence of a veterinarian for removal of velvet antlers in Alberta was an unrealistic prospect, so discussion were held between AVMA and AEA to find a more appropriate option. Don Bamber believes the program presents a positive image of the industry. "The price of being the best is a controlled system. The industry believes it is being humane in the handling of elk." The certification program provides further assurances. Methods of pain control are discussed in the course, along with safe and humane antler removal. Elk ranchers typically had already used some type of pain control as standard practice in removing velvet antlers. Dr. Church, who was instrumental in developing the training course, says while no one method is stipulated as the best, three approaches are covered with the advantages and disadvantages of each being discussed. The certification program is endorsed by AFAC. Website Resources:
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The Velvet Antler Removal Certification program became mandatory in 2001 for all licensed elk ranchers who remove antlers from their animals. The program, developed by the Alberta Elk Association (AEA) in consultation with the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), gives elk ranchers the legal right to remove antlers from their own animals. Dr. Terry Church, a veterinarian and elk rancher involved in the program's development, reports that it also ensures a recognized working relationship exists between ranchers and their veterinarians.