Sheep are transported more frequently and over greater distances than most farm animal species; the cumulative welfare impact of transport stress, including immune suppression and injury, is significant.
The frequency of sheep transport relative to their productive lifespan means that transport welfare improvements have significant aggregate welfare impact. Comingling of unfamiliar sheep during transport causes aggression and stress beyond that caused by the journey itself. Space allowances during transport affect both injury rates and thermoregulation. Evidence-based transport standards covering maximum journey times, stocking density, rest, water access, and group composition all contribute to reducing the cumulative welfare burden.