Farm Animals

Livestock Auction and Market Welfare

Livestock auctions and markets expose animals to multiple welfare stressors including mixing, handling, noise, and transport. Improving conditions at these facilities benefits millions of animals.

Key Facts

Livestock markets are a common point of disease transmission and stress for farm animals
Animals may wait many hours at markets without adequate feed, water, or rest
Mixing of unfamiliar animals leads to aggression and injury
Low-stress handling techniques significantly reduce injuries and stress at livestock facilities

Welfare Considerations

Livestock auction markets represent a welfare challenge because animals from multiple sources are mixed, handled by unfamiliar people, and held in temporary facilities. Improved infrastructure, mandatory water and feed provision, competency requirements for handlers, and limits on holding times can all reduce suffering at these facilities.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards and inspections for livestock auction facilities
Advocate for mandatory low-stress handling training for all livestock market workers
Encourage retailers to source from suppliers who minimize market exposure for animals
Support regulations setting maximum holding times and requiring feed and water at markets