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 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.
- The animals are fit to travel.
Legislation
Welfare of Animals (Transport) England Order 2006
EU Legislation
Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 (PDF, 60kb)
Council Regulation 1255/97 (PDF, 25kb)
Council Regulation 411/98 (PDF, 35kb)
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
- 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.