The issue of live animal transport is addressed very rarely and in a rather superficial manner in professional literature. The article aims to introduce logistical aspects in the field of live animal transport using the example of horses, primarily through the specificity of this “cargo” as a living organism, which during transport: feels physiological needs, and the transport itself is a source of stress and an unnatural situation for the animals.Logistical aspects of animal transport
Transporting live animals involves many aspects that must be taken into account when planning and executing the transport. Among other things, one must choose the mode of transport, the means of transport, ensure that all requirements related to specific regulations concerning the transport of live animals are met, and plan the route taking into account places where mandatory stops can be made.
Within the meaning of the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure on detailed conditions and methods of animal transport, a means of transport “means a vehicle (combination of vehicles) intended for road travel, a rail vehicle, a sea or inland waterway vessel, and an aircraft, as well as a portable container, box, or crate intended for the transport of animals. Transport means the carriage of animals by means of transport, including the loading and unloading of animals”2
When planning the transport of horses, the basic information is data on the number and type of animals. The choice of the mode and means of transport will depend on this. Often, only individual animals are transported to various types of sports competitions, breeding exhibitions, or trade fairs. (…)
The article contains 24,647 characters.
Source: Logistyka Magazine 5/2011