Welfare breach for sheep shipment
Photo: Jennifer MacKenzie
The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency and the RSPCA found a welfare breach while inspecting lorry loads of sheep at Ramsgate docks on 6th June, when it emerged that a faulty pump had resulted in hundreds of sheep having no access to drinking water.
It is a legal requirement that all lorries be fixed with a water supply so the animals can be provided with water instantly if so required. The AHVLA issued a warning note and the pump was repaired at the port before the lorry continued its journey.
Dr Julia Wrathall, head of the RSPCA's farm animals science team, said: "Drinking water is one of the essential basics that sheep, or any animals, need during a journey which can potentially be long and hot. It's very concerning that a lorry transporting live animals abroad had a faulty water pump but it's a relief that this was rectified so quickly."
The welfare breach follows the European Commission's rejection of a petition signed by over 400 MEPs and a million supporters calling for a maximum eight hour journey time.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
