Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare for birthing
- Check animal records and confirm anticipated birthing date where possible
- Check condition and health status of pregnant animal and monitor prior to imminent birthing
- Check birthing equipment, resources and materials and prepare for use
- Give females access to shelter to give birth in during severe weather conditions
- Identify hazards and report to supervisor
- Use safe work practices
- Assist at the birthing process
- Monitor environment and animals to ensure birth progresses normally
- Check for presence of predators and implement control measures where necessary and report to supervisor
- Handle animals calmly with minimal disruption to the birthing process and in line with enterprise animal welfare policies
- Identify animals experiencing birthing difficulties and intervene as appropriate
- Seek supervisor or veterinary advice if birth complications cannot be resolved
- Provide post-birthing assistance