Millions of sheep are transported long distances for fattening and slaughter every year. Transport welfare issues include loading, journey duration, and thermal stress.
The prey animal physiology of sheep makes transport inherently more stressful than for less reactive species. Loading procedures that involve chasing, shouting, or rough handling elevate cortisol and heart rate significantly before the journey begins. Long journeys without food or water cause increasing distress. Overcrowding prevents animals from lying down, leading to fatigue injuries. Live export of sheep to countries without equivalent welfare standards raises concerns about end-of-life conditions beyond regulatory reach.