N.J. Admin. Code § 2:8-6.4

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 24, December 18, 2024

Section 2:8-6.4 - Keeping

(a) The small ruminants' environment must provide relief from the elements, such as excessive wind, excessive temperature and excessive precipitation, that result in hyperthermia or hypothermia detrimental to the animals' health.

(b) Relief under (a) above can be accomplished with natural features of the environment including, but not limited to, trees, land windbreaks, overhangs or other natural weather barriers, or constructed shelters.

(c) Where constructed shelters are provided, they shall:

1. Be of sufficient size to provide adequate space for each animal seeking shelter within to stand, lie down, rest, get up, groom itself and move its head freely;

2. Be structurally sound;

3. Have a safe interior surface, reasonably free of injurious matter;

4. Have natural or mechanical ventilation to provide air quality and maintain an environment suitable for the animals;

5. Provide an environment that supports small ruminant health; and

6. Be maintained at a level of repair such that they continue to fulfill the requirements of (c)1 through 5 above.

(d) If enclosed yards are used to contain small ruminants, the following conditions shall be met:

1. Sharp objects or debris that pose an actual threat to the small ruminants' health shall be minimized to reduce the risk of injury to the animals.

2. If stationary objects that pose a risk of injury cannot be removed, reasonable efforts must be made to minimize contact of the small ruminants with these objects by fencing off or covering the object, or through similar means.

(e) Constructed floor surfaces on which small ruminants are kept must provide footing that minimizes injury to the small ruminants.

(f) Bedding or matting, if used, shall provide an environment suitable for small ruminant health.

(g) Small ruminants not in transit may be tied using halters or neck bands in their stalls or to stationary objects for up to 12 hours if feed and water are not available and for longer periods of time if feed and water are offered at reasonable intervals and the small ruminants can lie down safely.

N.J. Admin. Code § 2:8-6.4