Removal of Velvet Antler from Stags

Policy

The New Zealand Veterinary Association accepts that the removal of velvet antler from farmed stags is justifiable, but it must be performed with all due regard for animal welfare.

The New Zealand Veterinary Association believes that the welfare of deer during the removal of velvet antler, and the reputation of New Zealand in this regard, is best safeguarded by having a veterinarian present.

The New Zealand Veterinary Association endorses the NAWAC Code of Recommendations and Minimum Standards for the Welfare of Deer During the Removal of Antlers.

Explanation

1. Velvet antler is sensitive growing tissue.  Handling must be competent and analgesia complete.
2. New Zealand's international reputation is at stake if animal welfare is not upheld, and be seen to be upheld, in relation to velvet antler removal.  Public debate on the issue is likely to escalate and the veterinary profession in New Zealand must be able to show that at all times the welfare of the animals concerned is being safeguarded.
3. The Animals Welfare Act 1999 makes provision for the protection of animals and prevention of cruelty to animals.  The NAWAC Code of Recommendations and Minimum Standards for the Welfare of Deer During the Removal of Antlers was gazetted in July 1992, and is the basis by which the welfare of stags is safeguarded during velvet removal performed by approved individuals other than veterinarians.
4. Removal of sensitive velvet antler has been banned in various countries, notably the United Kingdom and certain States in the US.  If New Zealand is not seen to be upholding animal welfare, not only may velvet removal for commercial purposes be banned, but non-tariff barriers may be introduced against venison.  There could be a backlash against other New Zealand animal products.
5. Veterinarians have intensive training to gain a recognised qualification.  They gain a full understanding of animal structure and function, animal behaviour, effects of drugs, adverse drug reactions, and the necessary responses to any unexpected problems.  Veterinarians are responsible for any use or misuse of prescription animal remedies prescribed by them.  It is not possible to understand the complexity of the procedure without extensive training.
6. There is a constant review of policy as NZVA is charged with close vigilance on animal welfare issues.

Guidelines

Veterinarians when personally involved with velveting should set and practice the highest standard at all times.

Thorough knowledge of the Code of Recommendations and Minimum Standards for the Welfare of Deer during the Removal of Antlers, and the compliance standards of the National Velveting Standards Body “Velvet Removal Programme” manual is essential.

Expediency and time constraints must not be allowed to jeopardise animal welfare.

Supervision of recumbency must be diligent to avoid unnecessary stress to, or side effects on the stag.

Notes:

1. Code of Recommendations and Minimum Standards for the Welfare of Deer during the Removal of Antlers.  Code of Animal Welfare No. 5.  ISBN 0-477-08562-8.  ISSN 1171-090X.  Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Wellington, New Zealand, July 1992
2. Velvet Removal Programme, Copyright: National Velvet Standards Body.  June 1998.

Policy Files: 

8a - Removal of Velvet Antler - 18Nov00.pdf