Shechita in England
30. England is one of the countries that are strict about the method of shechita, and they give legitimacy to the various animal rights organizations [apparently they understand the language and feelings of animals well ... and some of them act like animals ... (see above, 4)]. For about thirty years already, the law only allows shechita on a standing animal. Kashrus agencies which oversee local shechita performed within the borders of the UK must deal with standing shechita, but this is indeed called a pressing situation since there is no other choice for local shechita. However, they must ensure all the conditions for shechita are met to allow it l’chatchila and so that it is kosher mehadrin and glatt (שו''ת מנח "י ח''י סי' נט בשהייתו כאב''ד מנשסטר).
31. Secured well. It must be ensured that the yoke holding up the animal’s head is set up properly so that the animal cannot move its head the slightest bit, neither up nor down. When its head convulses, even if it can only move its head upward, it can then jerk its head back down, leading to a concern for דרסה.
32. Concern for שהייה. Similarly, when the head is not secured well, it can easily lead to a concern for שהייה. When the animal moves its head up and down or side to side, it startles the shochet, easily leading to שהייה, which is even a tiny pause (see Issue 329, par. 29).
33. Checking the pen mechanism. Thus, every so often, the operation of the pen and its rods must be looked at, as even if everything started out functioning properly, it is possible for parts to become loose over time and due to wear and tear, leading to concerns for neveilos and treifos.
34. It should be noted that some kashrus agencies sometimes do not do the shechita under their certification within the borders of England. They do it in other places in Europe where it is permissible to shecht a lying animal. The advantage is that the above shailos are avoided.
