With dry conditions continuing to affect much of the region, Central West Local Land Services is urging producers to be aware of new guidelines for selecting and managing livestock for transport.

Meat and Livestock Australia have recently released an updated version of the glovebox guide Is the Animal Fit to Load?

The guide provides an outline for the assessment of livestock for health conditions or injuries that may determine if an animal is unfit to be loaded for transport.

Local Land Services District Veterinarian, Dr Belinda Edmonstone said there are instances where animals may not legally be allowed to be loaded onto a truck, including cancer eye, lameness, pregnancy or malnutrition.

"Animal welfare during transport is a shared responsibility, and the 'person in charge' of an animal at any one point in the chain of custody is personally responsible for the welfare of that animal," Dr Edmonstone said.

Offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 and Land Transport of Livestock Standards are enforceable by law and may result in a fine or prosecution.

"If there is any doubt, we urge that people get a second opinion; consult either a private veterinarian or a Local Land Services District Veterinarian," Dr Edmonstone said.

"If you are still in doubt - leave it out."

To download the guide or order a hardcopy, visit the Meat and Livestock Australia website at www.mla.com.au/isitfittoload.

Locals can access the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines Land Transport of Livestock on the Animal Welfare Standards website at www.animalwelfarestandards.net.au.

For more information or for any enquiries about the updated standards please contact your private veterinarian or the Local Land Services District Veterinarian on 1300 795 299.