CRUELTY TO ANIMALS.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 30, Issue 28, 12 April 1918, Page 4

CRUELTY TO ANIMALS.

In commenting on the cruelty to animals case heard in Picton the other day, and which arose over the obsolete methods of shipping stock, the 'Press' says: The police case concerning the above will forcibly bring before the railway authorities the absolute necessity of better facilities being given for the loading of stock at Picton. The present system, as described by expert witnesses in sworn evidence, is a disgrace to the authorities. The Department has been appealed to again and again on the matter, but has consistently turned down all suggestions of improvement as unnecessary. The verdict of the Magistrate and the action taken by the Chamber of Commerce, will, it is hoped, stir those in authority to consider the matter in their own interests and those of the port. The present system cannot be allowed to continue. It has been the usual practice in the loading of cattle at Picton, where more humane facilities are not available, to drag the animals through the water by a winch-controlled rope, and haul them aboard by means ofa sling. Occasionally the rope slips in transit, and the unfortunate beast, to save it from becoming entangled in the rope and drowning, has to be pulled aboard anyhow, sometimes by the horns or by the legs. It is undoubtedly injurious to the beasts thus handled, and a disgusting sight to spectators. No blame can be attachable to the officers of the ship in control of the loading, who generally do the best they possibly can under the adverse circumstances. The cause of any cruelty inflicted is due alone to the crude facilities provided at the wharf, and if anyone is responsible it is the Eailway Department.