Transport of Animals

“No animal shall be transported unless it is fit for the intended journey, and all animals shall be transported in conditions guaranteed not to cause them injury or unnecessary suffering”

(Source: Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations and amending Directives)

Introduction

All persons who take animals on a journey, whatever the length, should always apply the following good transport practice:

  • The journey is properly planned and time is kept to a minimum and the animals are checked and their needs met during the journey
  • The animals are fit to travel
  • The vehicle and loading and unloading facilities are designed, constructed and maintained to avoid injury and suffering
  • Those handling animals are trained or competent in the task and do not use violence or any methods likely to cause unnecessary fear, injury or suffering
  • Water, feed and rest are given to the animals as needed, and sufficient floor space and height is allowed

Legislation

Welfare of Animals (Transport) England Order 2006

EU Legislation

Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 (PDF 60 KB)

Council Regulation 1255/97(PDF 25 KB)

Council Regulation 411/98(PDF 35 KB)

The aim of the above legislation is to ensure a high minimum standard of welfare for all animals while they are transported.

These rules apply

  • to the transport of all animals (except pets and non-commercial transport, animals travelling accompanied) by road, sea, air or rail;
  • from the moment animals are loaded on a vehicle, through to their care during transport, and unloading at their destination.

The Regulation also applies to those working at:

  • markets;
  • assembly centres; and
  • slaughterhouses.

The Regulation does not apply to the transport of animals:

  • where the transport is not in connection with an economic activity;
  • transport to or from veterinary practices or clinics under veterinary advice; where the animal is an individual animal accompanied by its owner (or other responsible person) and is fit for journey; or
  • where animals are pet animals accompanied by their owner on a private journey.

Export Welfare Licences

Application forms and general guidance on exporting horses and ponies abroad can be obtained by contacting:

International Trade Centre for Exports
Hadrian House
Wavell Drive
Rosehill Ind. Estate
Carlisle
CA1 2TB

Tel: 01228 403600

Fax: 01228 591900

Email: centralops.carlisle@animalhealth.gsi.gov.uk

Application forms for export welfare licenses for horses and ponies can be downloaded here.