Assessment of welfare issues during traditional slaughter of goats in Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

Goats are traditionally slaughtered to celebrate marriages and births; venerate the ancestors; address personal problems or during funerals. The objective of this study was to assess animal welfare issues associated with the traditional slaughter of goats in and around Pretoria, South Africa. Participatory research methods were used to interview 105 respondents. Four of those interviewed were visited to observe the slaughter process. The most common method of transport was a vehicle (47%), followed by on foot (30%). The distance travelled (68%) was usually <10km, and in all cases <50km. The most common (57%) method of restraining goats during transport was by tying all four legs together. While, during slaughter the head and legs of the goat were held by assistants (55%). Prior to slaughter, the majority of goats were tied under a tree (66%). In total, 97% of the goats were slaughtered within 24 hours and no stunning was performed. In this study, animal welfare problems were widespread and research should be undertaken to find practical ways of addressing animal welfare issues during traditional slaughter.