EU: Scientific Committee adopted opinion on animal welfare during transport

The Scientific Committee advising the European Commission on animal health and animal welfare has today [Wednesday] adopted a report on the welfare of animals during transport. The EU scientists conclude that both welfare and health of animals can be substantially affected in the course of and as a result of transport. The Committee advises on maximum travel times, resting times, watering and feeding intervals, loading densities and loading methods. It also advises that the transport of very young animals should be prohibited. The Committee stresses the importance of proper training for the personnel responsible for animals during transport. The scientific opinion will now be carefully examined by the Commission with a view to follow-up proposals.