Sheep transported long distances for slaughter or breeding face significant welfare challenges from heat, hunger, overcrowding, and exhaustion during extended journeys.
Sheep transported for extended periods experience fatigue, dehydration, and heat stress, with vulnerable animals including heavily pregnant ewes and young lambs at particular risk. Animals unable to reach water during rest stops experience dehydration stress. Overcrowded vehicles prevent normal postural adjustment and resting behaviour. Mixing of unfamiliar groups causes social stress and injury from fighting. Animals injured during loading and unloading may travel for hours before veterinary examination.