Transporting animals to slaughter causes significant stress and injury, creating strong welfare arguments for slaughter at or near the farm of origin.
Transport is an inherently stressful experience for farm animals that disrupts their social groups, exposes them to unfamiliar environments and handling, and causes physical exertion and injury. Even when transport is compliant with regulations, the welfare cost is real and avoidable for many animals. The economic viability of mobile and local slaughter facilities is challenging but not insurmountable, as demonstrated by pilot programs. Consumer willingness to pay for locally slaughtered meat can create market support for these alternatives. Policy advocacy for funding local abattoir infrastructure is among the most impactful welfare interventions available.