Animal welfare: EU welfare in transport regulation (EC) No 1/2005
- Guidance on the rules
- Training and competence certification
- Transporter documentation
- Vehicle inspection and approval
- Publicity
Introduction
“No person shall transport animals or cause animals to be transported in a way that is likely to cause injury or undue suffering to them” (Source: Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations and amending Directives)
In the UK we have always emphasised the need for animals to be transported in a way that would not cause injury or unnecessary suffering. This will continue. 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
Position since 5 January 2007
On 5 January 2007, a Regulation on the protection of animals during transport came into force across the European Union (EU), with some elements coming into force in 2008 & 2009.
The Regulation applies to all those involved with the transport of live vertebrate animals in connection with an economic activity. For example:
- livestock and equine hauliers;
- farmers; and
- commercial pet breeders.
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 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.
Page last modified:
May 6, 2008