In the case of reindeer, the captive bolt stunner or shotgun, rifle must be positioned slightly above an imaginary line between the top of the eyes as shown in the sketch below.
Positioning of the weapon for mechanical stunning of reindeer. Photo from the Swedish Board of Agriculture’s regulations and guidelines (SJVFS 2012:27) on slaughter or killing of animals.
If the antlers prevent the animal being shot in the forehead, the weapon may be positioned directly behind the antlers and aiming towards the mouth, as shown in the sketch below.
Positioning of the weapon for mechanical stunning of reindeer with antlers at the forehead: Photo from the Swedish Board of Agriculture’s regulations and guidelines (SJVFS 2012:27) on slaughter or killing of animals.
When mechanical stunning has been carried out, it is necessary to check that the animal demonstrates the following signs:
1. the animal must immediately collapse and show no signs of trying to get up,
2. it must not be possible to see a normal respiratory rhythm in the animal,
3. the animal’s eyes must be open, and it must be staring directly forwards.
Remember!
There is a simple rule (known as the BBB rule in Swedish) to bear in mind:
Bulten Bara Bedövar – the bolt only stuns! Regardless of whether you use electricity or a captive bolt stunner, there is a risk of the animal regaining consciousness as stunning does not kill the animal (although this does happen). The exsanguination is what causes the animal to die.