Sheep transport welfare is governed by UK regulations that set journey time limits and space allowances, with ongoing debate about export of live sheep from Great Britain.
Sheep experience significant transport stress including fear responses to handling and loading, thermal regulation challenges and social disruption from mixing. Their small body size relative to vehicle motion means sheep suffer more from transport vibration than larger cattle. Poorly designed vehicles, insufficient bedding and inadequate space allowances cause injury and welfare compromise. Journeys to slaughter that exceed recommended durations compromise welfare significantly.