Exploring Deer Velveting in New Zealand: The Role of Lopaine in a Humane Practice

A Closer Look at the Harvesting of Deer Antler Velvet and Its Ethical Considerations

Deer velveting season in New Zealand is a unique and seasonal practice that has garnered attention for its role in traditional Chinese medicine and the dietary supplement industry. This practice involves the harvesting of deer antler velvet, which is renowned for its potential health benefits. However, it is also a process that raises ethical concerns, especially regarding the well-being of the deer involved.

When Does Deer Velveting Season Occur?

Deer velveting season in New Zealand typically occurs during the spring and early summer months, spanning from late November to early February. This timing aligns with the period when deer antlers are covered in a soft, velvety layer.

Deer Farms and the Velvet Harvesting Process

New Zealand boasts a significant deer farming industry, with red deer and wapiti being the primary species raised for their antler velvet. During the velveting season, these deer are cared for on specialized deer farms, where they are raised in a controlled environment.

The velvet harvesting process is a critical aspect of deer velveting. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

1. Sedation: Prior to velvet harvesting, the deer are often sedated by veterinarians or experienced handlers. This step helps keep the deer calm and reduces anxiety.
2. Local Anaesthesia: Local anaesthetic, such as Lignocaine (commonly known as Lopaine), are used to numb the area around the base of the antlers. This ensures that the deer does not feel pain during the procedure.
3. Waiting Period: After the local anaesthesia is administered, a waiting period allows the anaesthetic to take effect.
4. Velvet Harvesting: Once the area is sufficiently numb, the velvet is harvested from the antlers using specialized tools, with great care taken to avoid harming the deer or the antler.
5. Monitoring: Throughout the entire process, the deer’s vital signs and well-being are closely monitored to ensure their safety and comfort. Additional anaesthesia or pain relief may be provided if necessary.

Ethical Considerations

While deer velveting has been practiced for centuries and is a valuable industry in New Zealand, it is not without ethical considerations. Critics raise concerns about the welfare of the deer and whether the process is entirely humane. To address these concerns, the New Zealand government regulates the industry to ensure the proper treatment of animals and the safety and quality of velvet products.

Deer velveting season in New Zealand offers a fascinating glimpse into a traditional practice that combines elements of agriculture, traditional medicine, and modern ethics. The use of Lignocaine and other local anaesthetics plays a crucial role in making the process more humane for the deer involved, mitigating pain and stress.

As with any industry involving animals, it’s essential to stay informed about the practices and regulations in place. When considering deer antler velvet products, consumers should exercise caution and ensure that the products they choose are sourced from reputable sources that prioritize the well-being of the animals.