An agister is a person who feeds or pastures livestock for a fee. Agistment contracts are generally subject to the law of bailments. The liability of an agister depends on the terms of the agreement. In the absence of a special contract, the agister is not an insurer against the escape of animals entrusted to his care, but the agreement may provide otherwise.
The South Carolina General Form of Agreement or Contract is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions between the owner of livestock (the "Owner") and the party responsible for caring for and managing the livestock (the "Aristae"). This agreement is commonly used in the state of South Carolina for situations where the Owner needs to temporarily board and feed their livestock on another person's land or facility. The South Carolina General Form of Agreement or Contract typically includes the following key components: 1. Parties Involved: The agreement starts by clearly identifying the Owner and the Aristae, including their legal names and addresses. It is important to include the contact information of both parties for effective communication. 2. Description of Livestock: The agreement provides a detailed description of the livestock being listed, including the breed, age, sex, markings, and any identification numbers or tags. This helps to accurately track and distinguish the animals. 3. Terms of Agreement: This section outlines the duration of the agreement, including the start and end dates. It also includes any renewal options if applicable. Furthermore, it defines the specific purpose of the agreement, such as breeding, grazing, or medical treatment. 4. Care and Management: The agreement specifies the responsibilities of the Aristae for providing proper care, feeding, and management of the livestock. This includes provisions for appropriate shelter, clean water, and appropriate nutrition. It may also include guidelines for veterinary care and disease prevention. 5. Payment Terms: The agreement clearly states the agreed-upon compensation for the agreement services. This can be a fixed fee, a per-head basis, or a percentage of revenue. The payment terms, such as due date, mode of payment, and any late payment penalties, are also mentioned. 6. Liability and Insurance: This section addresses liability and insurance obligations. It may state that the Owner is responsible for insuring their livestock, while the Aristae carries liability insurance to protect themselves against any claims arising from injury or damage caused by the livestock. 7. Termination: The agreement includes provisions for terminating the agreement contract, such as breach of terms or mutual agreement. It may also outline the process for giving notice and any penalties for early termination. Different types of South Carolina General Form of Agreement or Contract may include variations or additional clauses based on specific situations. Some examples include: 1. Breeding Agreement: This type of agreement focuses on the purpose of breeding or reproduction of the livestock, detailing the responsibilities of both parties regarding stud services, care of pregnant animals, and the foaling or calving process. 2. Grazing Agreement: This agreement concentrates on providing grazing land for livestock. It outlines the rights and limitations for livestock's access to the pasture, rotation practices, and maintenance responsibilities. 3. Medical Agreement: This agreement emphasizes the temporary care and treatment of sick or injured animals. It highlights the Aristae's obligations to administer medication, provide specialized care, and update the Owner on the progress of the animal's recovery. In conclusion, the South Carolina General Form of Agreement or Contract serves as a comprehensive legal document defining the rights and responsibilities between livestock owners and Sisters. It ensures clear communication and protection of interests in both parties involved in the temporary boarding and care of livestock.
