Impact of EC Regulation on Animal Protection during Transport in Romania – some Aspects

The aim of this study was to establish how the application of EC Regulation 1/2005 and national legislation, have contributed or not to increase the animal protection and welfare during transport in our country. Short or long distance of animal transport done often in poor conditions can produce suffering of the animal involved. EU and national legislation in the field, wanted that suffering being minimized or even missing. A Commission report on animal transport Regulation showed that current legislation applicable from 2007 made some improvements in this area but it is still far from satisfactory especially in terms of time journey in relation with travel conditions (means of transport construction, microclimate, and methods of loading/unloading, supplies of food and water, stop for watering, feeding and rest). The study was based on answers given by drivers and attendants of animals involved in transport to some questions in the field. Results showed that livestock transporters lined to current legislation requirements thus ensuring the protection and animal welfare. This was due both proper equipping vehicles, especially long-term transport, and training of the drivers and attendants of animals in order to obtain the certificate of competence.