Heat stress during livestock transport causes significant suffering and mortality. Climate change is making high-temperature transport increasingly problematic across Europe.
Farm animals transported in hot weather face thermal stress compounded by crowding, poor ventilation, and the physiological demands of travel. Pigs are particularly vulnerable because they cannot sweat and rely on respiratory cooling, which is compromised in crowded vehicles. Cattle generate body heat that accumulates in poorly ventilated vehicles. The welfare response includes journey time limits in hot conditions, mandatory temperature monitoring, proper vehicle ventilation, water provision at rest stops, and avoiding transport during the hottest parts of the day. Climate change is making current regulations increasingly inadequate.