The World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) has issued a statement underscoring the need for rigorous implementation of animal welfare standards during transport.
WOAH stressed that while global trade in live animals is a key pillar of food production, long-distance journeys entail severe risks stemming from incomplete health certificates, unclear customs regulations, and unforeseen logistical problems. According to the organization, these challenges require thorough planning at origin to mitigate animal suffering.
Responsibility for animal welfare is shared among owners, operators, transporters and veterinary services. In this context, WOAH is updating its Terrestrial Animal Health Code to align scientific standards with current trade challenges.
Source: Eurocarne.
