Lower Saxony stops long animal transports in hot weather: A new protection!

Lower Saxony stops long animal transports in hot weather: A new protection!

The Lower Saxony Ministry of Agriculture has pulled the ripcord: in the future, animal transport will no longer be permitted at temperatures above 30 degrees. This symbolic measure is primarily intended to reduce the stress on animals in the intense heat. The responsible veterinary authorities are now instructed not to issue transport permits for journeys longer than eight hours in extreme heat. The decision comes in the light of the recent heat wave that plagued the district when the hottest day of the year was recorded on Wednesday, particularly in western Lower Saxony, as the NDR reported.

Doesn't this regulation come just in time? The authorities should now check whether transports can be relocated to cooler evenings or nights. In addition, the transporters must explain how and where breaks will be taken so as not to put unnecessary strain on the animals. Functioning ventilation and water supply in the transport vehicle are also basic requirements for any permit. These regulations are carefully monitored; Without the necessary systems, no transport will be processed.

Risks of transporting animals in hot weather

The background to this arrangement is disturbing. Livestock such as pigs, cattle and chickens are particularly sensitive to high temperatures. While pigs can't even sweat, dairy cows have a hard time at 20°C, which is considered heat stress. The risks during transport should not be underestimated - traffic jams, inadequate drinking options and dehydration are just some of the dangers that need to be avoided. The PROVISION sees this as a great responsibility, especially since the EU Animal Welfare Transport Regulation only allows or even prohibits transport above 30°C under special conditions.

Despite this heated discussion, it was noted that an accident on May 8th involving a truck transporting 160 pigs raised public awareness. In this incident, 60 animals died when the truck left the road in Emsland - a suspected illegal transport with missing documents. Such tragedies highlight the urgency of improving animal welfare during transport.

Animal protection network calls for further measures

The debate about animal transport is being conducted from different sides. The association of over 30 animal protection and animal rights organizations, scientists and consultants, known as the Animal Protection Network Joining Forces (TNKB), is calling for a clear stop to all animal transport to third countries. They are also in favor of a general ban on transport at outside temperatures above 25°C. At a time when official warnings for people are in place - such as drinking plenty, avoiding exertion and staying in cool places - tackling animal transport in extreme heat is more than just a necessary step.

One can say that the new regulations in Lower Saxony are a long-awaited signal to everyone involved. Protecting animal welfare is the top priority, and with the temperatures we are now experiencing, it is high time to show good hands and make sustainable decisions.