Farm Animals

Cattle Welfare in Long Distance Transport

Welfare during long-distance transport of cattle, including legislation, journey planning, and monitoring.

Key Facts

EU animal transport regulation requires space allowances, rest periods, and water during long journeys
Cattle show significant stress responses including elevated cortisol during transport
Journey planning to minimise duration reduces cumulative welfare cost
UK has tightened regulations on long distance transport following Brexit
Young unweaned calves should not be transported long distances on welfare grounds

Welfare Considerations

Long-distance transport causes cumulative stress, dehydration, and injury risk in cattle, and minimising transport duration and improving conditions reduces welfare costs.

What You Can Do

Advocate for stronger long-distance transport welfare standards
Support UK regulations limiting export of unweaned calves
Choose British beef from farms with short transport journeys to slaughter