Mechanical euthanasia methods – process and physiology

Mechanical methods of euthanasia have distinct welfare advantages, since when the methods are employed correctly animals are rendered instantly unconscious and hence unable to experience pain, fear or distress. When personnel are skilled and equipment is well maintained, death is rapidly and humanely induced, but these methods can be aesthetically disturbing for some people. Mechanical methods are often the most practical option for free roaming swine, as may occur during natural disasters or roadside accident when proper handling equipment is unavailable. Currently, blunt force trauma is the most common method for euthanasia of neonatal and nursery pigs.