SELECTED LEGAL AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF THE TRANSPORTATION OF LIVESTOCK

Abstract

The transport of live, domesticated animals is widespread today and it differs significantly from the transport of material goods. Animal transport is burdened with high risk of generating animal stress and suffering which can lead to animal death. The risk in transport has its sources in several areas e.g. stress reaction during loading, transport conditions, restricted access to feed and water, changing climatic conditions, noise, or finally problems with maintaining a standing position.Therefore it is obvious that there is a need to address and regulate the issue of animal transport by road at the European Union (EU) level which would then standardize solutions in this area. The passed legislation of the past few years has normalized the above issue and has been expanded, but more importantly clarified.Taking the above mentioned conditions into account, insuring appropriate transport conditions for animals is a pertinent task not only for owners of domesticated animals and meat processors, but above all, the relevant authorities of EU member states. This article undertakes an effort to analyze selected legal solutions in the area of animal transport and an assessment thereof. The article ends with conclusionary remarks.