Veterinary Services: Use of Firearm for Euthanasia Permitted

The Veterinary Services responded to a video circulating showing the euthanasia of animals with a firearm, as part of measures to eradicate foot-and-mouth disease. According to the Veterinary Services, the use of a firearm is a permitted method of animal euthanasia, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 1099/2009. This method results in instantaneous death to the animal, without causing suffering or pain. Euthanasia is carried out by trained personnel and is a necessary measure to eradicate the disease, not a choice. The Veterinary Services emphasize that the process is not pleasant, but is imposed to protect animal health and prevent further spread of the disease. Recently, no new cases of foot-and-mouth disease have been recorded, and the vaccination rate is high.