Veterinary Simulator Industries Ltd has been working on a captive bolt bovine stunning simulator with funding from the Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency.
This prototype model is based on a market steer and utilizes a replaceable brain canister system.
The canister (shown below) has representations of the skin, skull and brain.
This example also has a three dimensional target area included that represents the optimal placement for an effective stun and could be used for operator competency certification.
We have have also created canisters that would only be used for targeting training, and for getting experience in firing the captive bolt gun.
Now that the prototype has been completed it will be further evaluated at Olds Agricultural College in the National Meat Training Center.
This opened canister shows the path left by a captive bolt shot along with a piece of skin and skull at the end of the bolt's travel.
Dr. Bob Hollowaychuk, as part of the original ALMA proposal, test shot this model with a CASH model captive bolt.
Dr. Holowaychuk whom recently retired following a successful thirty-five year career in regulatory inspection services at both the federal and provincial level will review the simulation model and accompanying training materials to ensure that the system meets all federal and provincial regulations.
