Horses are transported alive across borders in significant numbers for slaughter or for sport. Live export of horses for slaughter is a major welfare campaign target in Europe and beyond.
Horse live export for slaughter represents one of the most significant welfare campaign opportunities in equine advocacy. Long-distance transport of horses causes extreme stress, injury, dehydration, and exhaustion. Investigations consistently document welfare violations including overcrowding, inadequate access to water and food, and injured horses not receiving veterinary attention. The UK ban demonstrates that legislative change is achievable. EU reform faces more political resistance due to established trade interests, but consumer pressure, investigative journalism, and sustained advocacy are building momentum for change.