Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: Husbandry of Captive Bred Emus

Description

Emus are kept in situations that vary from extensive grazing to close confinement and housing. Whatever the form of husbandry, owners, managers and handlers of emus have a responsibility for the health, welfare and considerate treatment of the birds under their control. The basic behavioural, anatomical and physiological needs of emus are considered in this document, irrespective of the degree of intensive husbandry practised, or the climatic conditions to which the emus are exposed. The basic requirements for the wellbeing of emus covered in this Code include: appropriate and sufficient food and water to sustain health and vitality; protection from predation; protection from disease, including disease that can be exacerbated by management; protection from extremes of climate, particularly during certain phases of their lives; and, protection from pain, distress, suffering and injury. The Code is intended as a set of guidelines which provides detailed minimum standards for assisting people in understanding the standard of care required to meet their obligations under the laws that operate in Australia's States and Territories.|Updated guidelines for those responsible for the welfare and husbandry of emus in captivity.