Long-Distance Livestock Transport Welfare

Millions of farm animals experience significant suffering during long-distance transport, with inadequate rest, water, food, and temperature control.

Key Facts

Cattle in the US can legally be transported for 28 hours without food or water
EU regulations require rest stops every 8 hours for cattle and 4 hours for pigs
Heat and cold extremes during transport cause thousands of animal deaths annually
Transport-related stress and injury cost the industry billions in losses
Slaughter at source followed by meat transport is a feasible welfare alternative

Welfare Considerations

Long-distance livestock transport causes measurable suffering through crowding, temperature extremes, food and water deprivation, and physical injury from falls and collisions. Animals are unable to engage in natural behaviors, establish social hierarchies normally, or avoid aggressive interactions. Stress compromises immunity, causing disease outbreaks during and after transport. The 28-hour rule in the US allows animals to suffer conditions that would be illegal in other contexts. Shorter journey times and slaughter closer to farms of origin would dramatically reduce this suffering.

What You Can Do

Support organizations advocating for stricter transport time limits
Advocate for maximum journey time limits in your country
Support local and regional slaughter facilities that reduce transport distances
Choose meat products from animals slaughtered locally when possible
Donate to organizations monitoring and reforming livestock transport regulations