Farmer fined after cow 'caused pain and distress'

A cow (stock image) was transported while suffering with an infection

A farmer has been fined £840 after a cow "clearly unfit to travel" was transported to an abattoir.

Wiltshire Council launched an investigation after a vet at the abattoir raised concerns about the condition of the animal, which was said to be suffering from an infection.

The farmer, who was based in the Warminster area, was issued with two Animal Penalty Notices (APNs). These are the first fines of their kind to be issued in Wiltshire.

Paul Sample, from the council, said: "Moving a cow that was clearly unfit to travel caused pain and distress to the animal. It also undermined the high standards upheld by responsible farmers across the county."

The cow's infection was possibly linked to a ruptured corneal ulcer, the council said.

During the local authority's investigation, the farmer claimed the abnormality had been present since he acquired the cow three months earlier and believed it to be a birth defect.

The farmer was issued with two APNs, one for unlawfully transporting an injured animal deemed unfit for travel and another for failing to seek veterinary advice for the injury.

Meanwhile, the haulier who transported the animal from the farm to the abattoir was also issued with a £500 APN. Wiltshire Council said the haulier claimed not to have noticed the abnormality, which the vet described as significant.

Mr Sample added: "Cruelty to animals is not tolerated in Wiltshire. The welfare of animals during transport is a legal duty.

Warning: Graphic image

The cow's infection was noticed by a vet at an abattoir

"We will continue to work closely with farmers and hauliers to ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations.

"Anyone with concerns about the transport or treatment of animals is encouraged to report them to the council's animal health team."

APNs are reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days. As APNs are not court convictions, those involved cannot be publicly named.

Both the farmer and haulier "co-operated fully with the investigation and have since paid the fines", the council added.