Rec R (90)5 transport SheepsGoats

COUNCIL OF EUROPE
COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS

RECOMMENDATION No. R (90) 5

OF THE COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS TO MEMBER STATES

ON THE TRANSPORT OF SHEEP AND GOATS

(Adopted by the Committee of Ministers on 21 February 1990
at the 434th meeting of the Ministers' Deputies)

Table of Contents

RECOMMENDATION No. R (90) 5

APPENDIX: CODE OF CONDUCT FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT OF SHEEP AND GOATS

General statement
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport
IV. Post-transport

Annex A: Transportation by rail
Introduction
II. Loading
III. Transport
IV. Post-transport

Annex B: Transportation by road
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport

Annex C: Transportation by air
Introduction
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport
Annex C-1: Design and construction of containers for transportation by air of sheep and goats

Annex D: Transportation by water
Introduction
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport

________________

RECOMMENDATION No. R (90) 5

OF THE COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS TO MEMBER STATES

ON THE TRANSPORT OF SHEEP AND GOATS

The Committee of Ministers, under the terms of Article 15.b of the Statute of the Council of Europe,

Aware that man has a moral obligation to respect all animals and to have due consideration for their capacity for suffering;

Convinced that the requirements for the transport of sheep and goats are not incompatible with their welfare;

Recalling the adoption of common provisions, laid down in the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport, concluded in 1968;

Recalling also the Additional Protocol to this convention, concluded in 1979 to enable the European Economic Community to become a Party to this instrument;

Motivated by the desire to safeguard, as far as possible, sheep and goats in transport from suffering;

Anxious to encourage full respect of the provisions of the convention by all people directly involved in the transport of sheep and goats in the member states

Considering that the Code of Conduct for the international transport of sheep and goats, as reproduced in the appendix to this recommendation, constitutes a series of guidelines which together can ensure the protection of the welfare of sheep and goats during such transport;

Believing that it may be appropriate, under certain circumstances, to apply relevant sections of this
Code of Conduct to sheep and goats being transported within national boundaries,

Recommends the governments of the member states:

i. if they have not already done so, to sign and/or ratify, at their earliest convenience, the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport, as amended by the Additional Protocol to this instrument;

ii. to ensure that adequate publicity is given to the Code of Conduct for the international transport of sheep and goats, in particular amongst the persons concerned with such transport;

iii. to encourage these persons to take account of the guidelines set out in this Code of Conduct when they prepare or carry out such transport;

iv. to ensure that each international consignment of sheep and goats is accompanied by an appropriate certificate which should follow the standard international transport certificate elaborated within the European Community for the transport of animals;

v. to encourage their nationals to ensure, when concluding contracts which result in a transport of sheep and goats from non-member states, that before the departure of such transport the conditions are respected throughout the journey, in line with the principles set out in the European convention and with the guidelines listed in the Code of Conduct for the international transport of sheep and goats,

APPENDIX TO RECOMMENDATION NO. R (90) 5: CODE OF CONDUCT FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT OF SHEEP AND GOATS

General statement

In the best welfare interests of the animals, long-distance transport of sheep and goats for slaughter should be avoided whenever possible and be replaced by the transport of carcase meat.

Every effort should be made to avoid any unnecessary delay in the transport of sheep and goats and a consignment should be detained only when it is strictly necessary for the welfare of the animals.

Annexes A, B, C and D provide additional guidelines for the transport of sheep and goats by rail, road, air and water respectively.

I. Pre-transport

I.1. Preliminaries

I.1.1. Enquiries. The first step for any person intending to undertake the international transport of animals shall be to find out from the appropriate competent authorities what conditions are in force for transit through or importation into the country or countries concerned (for example serological tests, vaccination, quarantine, customs procedures etc.).

I.1.2. Planning of the journey. Careful planning of any journey is essential: the route, time, likely weather conditions, distances, opening hours of customs offices, stages and stopping places must be considered beforehand, as well as any facilities which might be required for tending, feeding, watering and milking the animals if such facilities are not carried on the transport unit. Care must also be taken to ensure that all necessary health certificates have been obtained and that the route followed does not jeopardise the health certification in any way.

I.1.3. Quantity of food. It is preferable to carry a surplus of food on a long journey in case of any unforeseen delays, and to ensure a gradual change-over to any new diet at the destination over a period of two to three days.

I.1.4. Notification. Early notification of the expected time of arrival at control posts will help minimise delays. Every effort should be made to ensure that this is done either by the consignor, carrier or consignee.

I.2. Preparation of the animal

I.2.1. Disease. For sheep and goats not intended to be slaughtered directly, immunisation and/or treatment for internal and external parasites should be considered well in advance of any export. Immunisations should be administered in accordance with the national regulations in the country of destination and, where appropriate, the countries of origin and transit, taking into account the period which will elapse before the required immunity can develop.

I.2.2. Acclimatisation. Where possible, sheep and goats should be acclimatised to the type and size of pen, crate or box in which they will be transported. Animals of both species should be accustomed to being handled before shipment. If mixing of social groups is unavoidable, this should be carried out at least twenty-four hours prior to transport.

I.2.3. Group size. The size of the groups within the transport unit should not be too large and should be determined in relation to the facilities available, the means of transport used and the need to avoid such problems as overcrowding and suffocation of the animals. More space should be allowed for sheep in full fleece and consideration given to the differing space requirements of the various breeds. Adult male sheep and goats should be transported separately unless they have been reared in compatible groups, or otherwise been accustomed to each other.

I.2.4. Feeding and watering. Animals, especially those coming from pastures, should be accustomed to the food which will be supplied during the journey, in particular in the case of manufactured food. Before embarking on a journey, sheep and goats should be given only a small amount to eat, and a moderate amount to drink.

A record of the feeding and watering times should accompany the animals throughout the journey.

I.2.5. Identification. Each animal must have a legible identification number which must be recorded accurately on any accompanying documentation.

I.2.6. Rest. Apart from journeys of a short duration, all animals should be allowed an adequate period of rest, free from outside disturbance, before they are loaded for international transportation.

I.2.7. Sedation. Tranquillisers shall not be used unless strictly necessary. If they are used, the pharmaceutical name of the drug, dosage rate, dates and times of administration should be noted on the documents accompanying the animal, such as the International Animal Transport Certificate (IATC). Tranquillisers should be administered only under veterinary supervision or by another competent person under veterinary guidance.

It shall be borne in mind that not all sheep and goats react in the same way to sedation ; for instance, one animal will remain standing while another may lie down. If animals become recumbent, care must be taken to ensure that they are not harmed, for example by the effects of the motion of the transport or because they are trampled.

I.2.8. Sheep and goats in milk-. It is desirable that sheep and goats in full lactation are not transported over long periods. Sheep and goats in milk should be milked immediately before loading.

I.3. Preparation of the transport unit

1.3.1. Cleanliness. It is important that any part of the transport unit which has been or will be in contact with animals, including any receptacle, equipment or fitting, be cleaned and, if necessary, disinfected before loading and after unloading. Care should also be taken by all personnel in contact with animals during international carriage that their outer clothing and footwear are changed, washed or cleaned at the end of the journey and before contact with other animals.

I.3.2. Accommodation in the transport unit. The accommodation in the transport unit and the loading conditions should be in accordance with the requirements for the welfare of the animals to be transported, as set out in II and III hereafter.

I.4. Designation of the person in charge

I.4.1. Attendant. Each consignment of sheep and goats should be accompanied by an attendant who is in charge of looking after the animals and feeding and watering them. However, an attendant is not required when the consignor and/or consignee have ensured that the animals will be looked after, fed and watered at the stopovers throughout the journey. The attendant should be suitably trained in how to ensure the welfare of the animals in his charge, and be conversant with administrative requirements and other formalities. If large numbers are being carried, there should be a sufficient number of attendants to care for them, with one person in charge of the whole consignment. When the attendant considers that veterinary assistance is needed, he should obtain it as quickly as possible.

1.5. Tasks of the official veterinarian before transport

1.5.1. Documents. Incomplete documents can cause considerable delay; they must be completed legibly and with absolute accuracy. Official documents should not be altered, but any errors or proper erasures made must be stamped and initialled by the official veterinarian. Documents shall be completed so that they can be understood in the country of origin, the country of destination and in any country of transit.

I.5.2. Fit animals. Only animals which are fit for the intended journey shall be subjected to international transportation and the nature, length and duration of the proposed journey should be taken into account when deciding the degree of fitness required.

Excessive stress during transport may lead to increased susceptibility to diseases, parturition problems, failure to come into oestrus, injuries or weight loss.

Animals which are emaciated or lame, and animals suffering from any condition which might be aggravated by the motion of the means of transport, may only be transported if authorised by the official veterinarian in the interest of the animal.

Sheep and goats which are likely to give birth during transport shall not be considered fit for transportation. Before deciding on the transport of animals in late pregnancy, the need for such transport should be given special consideration. Sheep and goats which have given birth within the previous forty-eight hours, as well as young animals whose navel has not healed, shall not be transported.

I.5.3. Stocking densities. Notwithstanding the recommended stocking densities as given in the annexes, the official Veterinarian should be prepared to give advice and can require the off-loading of some animals if he considers that there is overcrowding. He should also be prepared to advise on penning if the animals are too loosely packed and might be thrown about by the motion of the transport unit.

1.5.4. Emergency killing. The official veterinarian should satisfy himself that, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter III.4, an instrument in working order for the emergency killing of animals is at hand in the transport unit, where applicable, and that the person in charge understands how and in what circumstances to use it.

II. Loading

II.1 Facilities

II.1.1. Means of loading. Loading should take place from a properly constructed ramp, lift or loading bay, though appropriate manual lifting is permissible if the animals are small enough, and even desirable in the case of lambs or kids which might have difficulty in negotiating a ramp. All loading facilities should be suitable for their purpose, stable and maintained in a good state of repair. Ramps should have fitted, adequate sides for lateral protection.

All ramps and walking surfaces should be of an anti-slip design. Foot battens or a sufficient covering of sand or litter may be used as necessary. Efforts should be made to minimise the slope of the ramp; horizontal loading is preferable.

II.2. Light

II.2.1. Lighting. The interior of the transport unit should be well lit at loading so that the sheep and goats can see where they are going.

II.3. Handling

II.3.1. Treatment. Loading and unloading are the activities during which injuries and stress are most likely to occur. Noise and harassment during loading should be avoided as should the use of excessive force. Sheep and goats must be moved and handled calmly and gently in order to protect the animals from unnecessary pain, distress and injury. Account should be taken of the flocking instincts of sheep and goats. Electric goads or instruments based on the electric shock principle should not be used. The use of well-trained, experienced sheep dogs may be of assistance in the gathering of animals prior to loading, but they should not be used during the loading of animals into the transport unit.

Animals shall not be lifted by means of their head, horns, fleece, legs or tail.

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

III.1.1. Construction and design. Containers, receptacles, vehicles, fittings, etc. must be strong enough to contain the animals' weight, to prevent the animals escaping or falling out, and to withstand the stresses of movement. Fittings should be designed for quick and easy operation.

Any transport unit should have the means to provide adequate protection from the weather.

Floors should be designed to ensure that the bedding is maintained reasonably clean and dry, and if necessary be fitted with a drainage system to contain faeces and urine. The materials used for construction should be such that they are not liable to corrosion.

Parts of the aircraft, vessel, receptacle, vehicle, etc. in which sheep or goats are accommodated, or through which they are moved, should be free of obstructions and hazards, including sharp edges or protrusions, which could cause injury. Deck and floor surfaces should provide a good foothold.

Any transport unit shall allow the requirements for stocking density set out in III.1.4 below to be respected. There should be adequate clear headroom, and space above the head of each animal for air circulation/ventilation.

The design of the ventilation system shall allow the supply of sufficient fresh air, taking account of the number and size of the animals being carried, the length of their fleece or coat, and the climatic conditions expected for the journey. Where the animals are carried in a fully enclosed space the ventilation system shall also allow an exchange of air by mechanical means, unless renewal can be ensured by other means.

For transport during a long period of time, room shall be provided to store, if appropriate, reserve supplies to feed and water the animals at appropriate times.

III.1.2. Securing. Containers, receptacles and pens must be so secured as to prevent their being displaced by the movement of the transport.

III.1.3. Lighting. There should be a means of lighting, fixed or portable, sufficient for general inspection of the animals when this is necessary during loading, carriage and unloading, and for feeding and watering.

111.1.4. Stocking density. Each sheep or goat shall have sufficient space to stand and lie down in its natural position, unless special conditions for the protection of the animals require to the contrary. Under-stocking can result in injury if the animals are thrown about by the motion of the transport and in these circumstances extra partitions should be provided for support, bearing in mind that these partitions would encroach upon the available space.

When calculating space requirements, the size and condition of the animals, the weather, and the nature and length of the journey must be taken into account.

Figures which are considered to be satisfactory are given in the annexes to this Code of Conduct.

III.1.5. Ventilation. The air circulation in transport units should be such as:

- to provide enough oxygen for the animals,
- to remove smell and gases, and
- to control temperature and humidity.

The supply of fresh air must be checked regularly and adjusted when necessary, but the animals should not be placed in excessive draughts. It should be borne in mind that solid partitions can prevent the loss of heat produced by the animals and interfere with the circulation of air.

III.1.6. Temperature. When animals are to be transported in very hot or cold conditions, care should be taken to avoid extreme temperatures ; special consideration should be given to the construction of the transport unit, its mechanism for ventilation and for regulating the temperature, the speed of travel, the number of stops to be made en route as well as the number and age of the animals to be carried.

Newly shorn sheep should not be exposed to cold temperatures during transport.

III.1.7. Feeding and watering. All animals shall be fed and watered at least once in every twenty-four-hour period. In case of unavoidable delay, this period may be extended for a short time if this is manifestly in the interest of the animals. Young animals need to be fed and watered more frequently. Weather conditions may also warrant shorter watering intervals. When calculating these intervals, account should be taken of the last feed and watering before loading, and the first possible feed and watering after unloading.

During carriage, only a maintenance ration should be provided. Care must be taken to provide a type of food suitable for the age and type of the animals being transported, and in quantities that will not disturb the digestion. It should be noted that adult sheep and goats on dry food may drink up to 5 litres of water per day, and that sheep and goats in milk may require as much as 20 litres of water daily.

Sealed transport

If the transport unit is sealed for customs purposes, then either suitable access must be available for the inspection of the animals and for introduction of food and water, or the seals must be removed, and subsequently replaced, in the presence of an officer of the competent authority so that inspection, feeding and watering can take place.

III.1.8. Positioning of animals. Animals being carried together (apart from dams with offspring at foot) should be of approximately equal size and weight. Animals belonging to different species should always be separated from each other during the transport. In the transport unit, the following animals should be carried separately:

a. adult male sheep or goats, unless they have been reared in compatible groups or otherwise accustomed to each other;

b. a female sheep or goat travelling with her young;

c. any animal which is antagonistic to other animals.

Adjustable partition boards should be mounted to help the animals keep their balance. Such partition boards must be appropriate for the size of the animals and be fixed in a way which prevents the animals from being injured.

III.1.9. Equipment. During transportation, adequate and suitable bedding material shall be supplied. This should have absorbent properties, particularly where straw is used as the upper layer.

III.1.10 Facilities for feeding, watering and milking during transport. At places where sanitary control is exercised, sufficient facilities shall be available where necessary for the resting, feeding, watering and milking of the number of animals which may be expected.

III.1.11 Unloading and reloading en route. If the transport unit is not equipped for feeding and watering the sheep or goats, provision should be made for unloading and reloading en route for that purpose when required (see also III.1.7). The sheep or goats should be allowed an adequate period of time free from outside disturbance, to feed and drink, and to rest.

III.1.12 Access. Provision should be made for the possibility to feed, to water and, if necessary, to milk the animals as well as to observe and inspect them, and, depending on the means of transport and the conditions in which it is being carried out, to have access to them at suitable intervals. Access to the pens may be required either through side doors, passageways or walk-ways, and it has been found that access through one group of animals to reach another group is not satisfactory.

III.2. Duration and interruption of the journey

III.2.1. Duration. Every opportunity should be taken to inspect the animals, for instance whenever the transport unit or weather conditions change, and at customs posts. It is also recommended that the sheep or goats be inspected at intervals not exceeding six hours, and more frequently when the welfare of the animals could be in doubt.

III.2.2. Delays. Sheep and goats shall be transported to their destination as soon as possible and delays shall be reduced to a minimum. If delays occur, adequate care shall be given to the animals, particularly in relation to feeding, watering, milking and ventilation.

Consignments of animals should be given priority at frontier posts, in ports, at airports and in other places where delays may be expected to occur.

III.3. Care during transport

III.3.1. Care. The attendant should remain with the transport, or be available at the designated stopping places. All attendants should be trained to have a sufficient knowledge of the needs of the animals, regarding feeding and watering, tending, milking and air circulation in different climatic conditions.

Sheep and goats in milk shall be milked at intervals of not more than twelve hours.

Smoking shall be forbidden in compartments containing animals.

III.3.2. Treatment. Whenever possible, sick or injured animals shall be separated and unloaded, and treated by a veterinarian or by another competent person. If an animal gives birth during transport, it shall be separated and transported together with its offspring.

III.4. Emergency killing

III.4.1. Air and water. In ships and aircraft transporting sheep and goats, an appropriate and effective means for the emergency killing of animals shall be at hand and in working order. Emergency killing should be carried out by a veterinarian or other competent person.

III.4.2. Rail and road. If during rail or road transport animals need to be killed, a veterinarian or other competent person should be called upon.

III.5. Tasks of the official veterinarian

III.5.1. Interruption of the transport. When during transport an official veterinarian becomes aware of problems, he must not allow the transport to proceed unless measures have been taken to ensure that the welfare of the sheep or goats is protected.

IV. Post-transport

IV.1. Unloading

IV.1.1. Care. On arrival at their destination, the animals should be unloaded as soon as possible, offered food and water and be allowed to rest. All animals should be examined closely at unloading and veterinary assistance obtained if necessary.

After prolonged periods of transport (thirty-six hours or more), the health of the animals should be monitored for four or five days - except where they are to be slaughtered on arrival or shortly afterwards.

If at the destination a new diet is given, a gradual change-over is recommended.

IV.1.2. Responsibility. The attendant must bring to the attention of the person in charge at the destination any aspect of the journey which might affect the future welfare of the sheep or goats: the last feeding, watering and milking times, the relevant details of any treatment carried out, including any medication administered. The attendant should not leave the premises of destination until he is satisfied that a suitable person has taken charge of the sheep or goats.

IV.1.3. Report. The consignee should report to his authorities any problems relating to a consignment of sheep or goats so that international transportation can be kept under constant review and the welfare of the animals improved as more information becomes available.

IV.2. Facilities

IV.2.1. General. Similar facilities are required for unloading as those required for loading. Efforts should be made to minimise the slope of the ramp. Where sides are fitted to ramps these should preferably be made up of solid boards.

IV.2.2. Care. If rest and recovery are needed for the animals after transport, suitable facilities should be provided for these, as well as for feeding and watering.

IV.3. Tasks of the official veterinarian at unloading

IV.3.1. Liaison. The official veterinarian in the country of transit or the country of destination should notify any problems which arose during the journey to his authorities, who should then report back to the authorities in the country of origin and in the country of transit where appropriate. Close liaison between the consignee and his veterinary authorities and between the different veterinary authorities involved is also essential.

Annex A: Transportation by rail

Introduction

As far as the welfare of sheep and goats is concerned, the existing regulations of the International Union of Railways (IUR/UIC-Codex) are included in the general part of the Code of Conduct or in this annex. In some cases, the following Guidelines may be more precise or more restrictive than the IUR/UIC-Codex.

II. Loading

II.1. Facilities

Sheep and goats should be loaded and/or unloaded at railway stations which are adequately equipped for that purpose. Railway stations where sheep and goats are regularly loaded and/or unloaded must be equipped with adequate ramps or bridges (fixed or movable) whilst enclosures or pens must be available which have an even, solid floor, facilities for tethering, feeding and watering sheep and goats ; an adequate part of these enclosures or pens should be covered.

II.1.1. Means of loading. Where animals are walked aboard the wagon, the ramps should have side protection of sufficient height and be sufficiently covered at the bottom so as to prevent injuries.

The surface of loading ramps must be covered with non-slip material and must be provided with horizontal square-edged slats approximately 2,5 cm high at intervals of approximately 25 cm.

The following criteria have been found satisfactory for loading ramps:

Slope

Height of side gates

Step from ground to ramp
and from top of ramp
to rail wagon

Space between top of ramp
and rail wagon

Not more than 30°
and possibly less for descent

Not less than 1,30 m

Not more than 12 cm (or less for lambs or kids)

Not more than 1,5 cm

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

Sheep and goats must be transported as quickly as possible to their destination; extended stops must be avoided, particularly in marshalling yards and during transhipment.

When the amount of traffic so justifies, the railway management must endeavour to form regular or special trains for the conveyance of the sheep or goats, or to forward blocks of wagons by fast trains. When there is less traffic, appropriate freight trains may be used, and, exceptionally, appropriate passenger trains.

III.1.1. Construction and design of wagons. Length, width and height of the space available for sheep and goats should be displayed on wagons. Appropriate indications or symbols on the outside of the wagon should make clear that live animals are being carried.

Wagons must be suitable for the transport of sheep and goats throughout the journey. They must be designed so that the sheep or goats are completely secure and cannot escape.

Wagons should have a barrel roof and must be provided, along each side and near the roof, with, depending on the length of the wagon, either two or four closable openings of at least 40 x 30 cm. These openings must be protected to avoid an animal putting its head through. If animals are carried in more than one tier, the ventilation provided should be in accordance with the number of tiers.

In addition, when outside temperatures are high or expected to be high, wagons should, if possible, be equipped with a double or insulated roof. Wagons shall have facilities enabling the doors to be held open at a width of not more than 15 cm, depending on the size of the animals carried, and safety barriers to be fitted to prevent the animals escaping.

The inside walls should be of wood or other suitable material. Suitable provisions must be made for securing the partition walls.

If during longer journeys the animals are watered and fed inside the wagons, these should be equipped, at an adequate height, with a number of hatches sufficient for the number of animals carried. The hatches must be wide and high enough for buckets to be passed through easily. During transport these hatches must be closed. Where such facilities are not available, satisfactory alternative methods of feeding and watering must be provided.

III.1.4. Stocking density. The indicative figures hereafter are considered to be satisfactory when sheep and goats of the following average weight are being transported:

Category

Weight in kg

Area per animal
in m²

Shorn sheep and lambs
of 26 kg and more

Unshorn sheep

Heavily pregnant sheep

< 55
> 55

0,20 to 0,30
> 0,30

0,30 to 0,40
> 0,40

0,40 to 0,50
> 0,50

Goats

Heavily pregnant goats

< 35
35 to 55
> 55

< 55
> 55

0,20 to 0,30
0,30 to 0,40
0,40 to 0,75

0,40 to 0,50
> 0,50

The floorspace indicated above may need to be varied depending on the breed, size, condition and length of fleece of the animals, the weather conditions and the length of journey. For example, small lambs may be provided with less floorspace than 0,20 m² per animal.

III.1.7. Feeding and watering. If during the journey the sheep or goats cannot be fed and watered inside the vehicle, they must be unloaded at suitable places so that they can be fed and watered.

III.3. Care during transport

III.3.1. Care. Drivers of road vehicles should ensure a smooth and considerate journey and avoid abrupt changes of speed or direction.

If a stop is inevitable, the vehicle should in hot weather be parked in the shade, and in cold weather in a sheltered place, bearing in mind in both cases the need to maintain adequate ventilation.

Vehicles should not be parked on a steep incline.

Annex C: Transportation by air

Introduction

As far as the welfare of sheep and goats is concerned, the existing Live Animals Regulations, drawn up by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), are covered by the general part of the Code of Conduct or in this annex. In some cases, the following guidelines may be more precise or more restrictive than the IATA regulations.

I. Pre-transport

I.1. Preliminaries

1.1.2. Planning of the journey. Planning the transport of animals by air involves special arrangements for loading and unloading and, when applicable, for transfer from one aircraft to another or for reloading at a stopover.

Arrangements shall be made to provide care for the animals during the journey, including feeding and watering where appropriate. It is especially important where a consignment is not to be accompanied by an attendant to plan for such attention at a stopover.

The effect of any temperature variation must be considered when there are significant climate differences between departure, stopover and destination airports. It may be necessary to use an alternative route to avoid extremes of climate at stopovers. In addition, it is also desirable to arrange for flights to arrive at stopovers and final destination at times when the temperatures are expected to be reasonable.

1.1.4. Notification. The captain of the aircraft shall be informed by means of a notification to captain (NOTOC) about the presence of livestock shipments aboard the aircraft before the start of the journey so that adequate ventilation and temperature setting can be applied.

En route and destination airports shall be informed in view of special arrangements to be made ensuring the welfare of the animals.

I.2. Preparation of the animal

I.2.7. Sedation. Experience has shown that there is considerable risk in sedating animals inasmuch as the reaction of various species, especially at high altitudes, cannot be foreseen and, therefore, can do more harm than good. During the flight, tranquillisers should only be administered with the knowledge and consent of the captain. Tranquillisers should only be administered by a Veterinarian, or an animal attendant who has been properly instructed in their use.

1.4. Designation of the person in charge

I.4.1. Attendant. It is preferable that sheep and goats shipped by air are accompanied by one or more attendants, as appropriate to the number of animals. Attendants must be conversant with the relevant guidelines and standards of care contained in the current edition of the IATA Live Animals Regulations.

Such transportation should preferably take place in accessible cargo compartments to allow effective attendance during all phases of air transport.

II. Loading

II.1. Facilities

Adequate facilities must be available to receive the sheep or goats, to pen them if necessary, to take care of them, to feed, water and milk them if necessary, to inspect them and to load them.

Sheep and goats should not be exposed to excessive noise of aircraft and other machinery for longer than absolutely necessary.

Only personnel experienced in the handling of animals should handle the sheep and goats. When the animals are tired at the time of arrival at the airport, the official veterinarian can decide to give them an adequate rest before loading. This might even imply that the animals cannot be taken on a particular flight.

II.1.1. Means of loading. The following criteria are considered to be satisfactory for loading ramps:

Slope

Height of side gates

Step from ground to ramp
and from top of ramp to aircraft

Space between top of ramp
and aircraft

Not more than 30° and possibly less for descent

Not less than 1,30 m for adult animals

Not more than 12 cm (or less for lambs or kids)

Not more than 1,5 cm

Sheep and goats should be loaded on to the aircraft as close as possible to the time of take-off to avoid difficulties in maintaining proper ventilation and temperature control.

Where sheep and goats are loaded in containers, this should be carried out away from the aircraft, preferably in a loading shed or in an animal holding area.

They should only be held in the immediate vicinity of an aircraft for as short a period as possible before the actual loading takes place, to avoid stress due to such factors as excessive noise, flashing lights and inclement weather. The sheep and goats must not be stowed in the vicinity of other cargo which could harm them, for example radioactive materials, shipments packed in dry ice, cryogenic liquids, poisonous or infectious substances, irritants. They should also be positioned so that the circulation of air around them is not impeded, and during stopovers unloading and reloading can be avoided.

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

III.1.1. Construction and design. If containers are used, their design and construction should follow the principles laid down for that purpose in the relevant container notes of the current edition of the IATA Live Animals Regulations (see Annex C-1). They must meet the following specifications:

a. The container must be strong enough to contain the animals and be free of internal projections likely to cause injury. The materials used for constructing the container may include metal, wood, fibreglass and polyethylene.

b. The floor shall be constructed of a material, or so designed, to prevent the animals from slipping. Each floor of the container must be leak-proof and strong enough to withstand the weight of the animals. Sufficient suitable material should be spread on the floor to absorb all excreta.

c. The sides of the containers must be close-boarded to a minimum height of 30 cm to prevent spillage of excreta. Containers are normally ventilated through apertures in their side panelling. These apertures should be equivalent to not less than 20% of the floor area for each tier, and preferably not less than 40% of the whole side. Ventilation apertures exceeding 10 cm must be provided with a bar to prevent the sheep or goats forcing their heads or legs outside the container.

d. The container shall have a sliding or hinged door that is constructed in such a way as to prevent accidental opening. Any catches used should be simple and easy to operate. Each floor of the container must be accessible.

III.1.4. Stocking density. The stocking density should be high enough to prevent injuries at take-off, during turbulence or at landing, but still allow individual animals to lie down. In deciding stocking densities, the temperatures en route and total travelling time should be considered, in addition to the breed, size, condition and length of fleece of the animals.

Stocking density can be calculated in two ways:

- the weight of the animal in relation to the available floor area;
- the oxygen or ventilation required per kg/animal in relation to the ventilation capacity.

Stocking density for sheep and goats in relation to floor area

The following indicative figures are considered to be satisfactory when sheep and goats are being transported:

Average weight	Floor area per sheep/goat
25 kg 50 kg 75 kg	0,20 m² 0,30 m² 0,40 m²

III.1.5. Ventilation

Stocking density for sheep and goats in relation to ventilation requirements

It is advised that, during combined transport of sheep or goats and passengers, adequate ventilation should be provided, even if the number of passengers does not necessitate such ventilation.

As the ventilation capacity of most aircraft may be limited during take-off, landing and when the aircraft is on the ground, any calculations must take these factors into account. When determining the ventilation capacity of an aircraft, up-to-date performance information, and not merely the manufacturer's original specifications, must be considered.

Aircraft carrying sheep or goats should preferably be equipped with forced ventilation. For aircraft carrying sheep or goats, the ability to supply 0,13 to 0,22 m³/kg/hr of air is required.

For the transport of sheep or goats in belly holds, particular account must be taken of air pressure, temperature and cubic capacity. There shall be sufficient space all around the sheep or goat container for air circulation and this shall not be obstructed.

III.1.6. Temperature. A combination of high temperature and high relative humidity poses a risk to sheep and goats. All measures should be taken to avoid the temperature remaining above 25° C, with relative humidity in excess of 80%, for periods of an hour or more.

Additional ventilation should be provided if necessary when the aircraft is on the ground. If possible, it may be advisable to leave the cargo doors closed when the outside temperature is high so that the cargo compartment containing the sheep or -oats can be kept at a lower temperature.

III.1.12. Access. As far as possible, the attendant should have access to all animals during all phases of the flight.

Where continuous access is not possible in flight, access shall be available when the aircraft is on the ground, for instance by suitable positioning of the containers.

III.3. Care during transport

III.3.1. Care. During unscheduled stops and in other unforeseen situations, the attendant or the captain should take all necessary steps to ensure the welfare of the animals. This may include feeding, watering and milking the animals.

III.4. Emergency killing

III.4. 1. Emergency killing. Emergency killing of a sheep or goat may only take place humanely and in consultation with and under the responsibility of the captain of the aircraft.

Acceptable means of emergency killing are:

- a suitable central nervous system depressant, or
- a captive bolt followed by a suitable central nervous system depressant or other means of ensuring death.

Decompression of the aircraft may not be used as a means of emergency killing.

Annex C-1: Design and construction of containers for transportation by air of sheep and goats

Annex D: Transportation by water

Introduction

There are three basic types of shipment method by which sheep and goats can be transported by water:

i. Ro-Ro vessels

in a vehicle, or other container moved on wheels, which is driven or towed on and off a Roll-on-Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel;

ii. Vessels designed to carry livestock

in a vessel which is adapted and has special fittings for carrying sheep and goats, usually in penned enclosures;

iii. Other cargo vessels

in boxes, pens, crates or containers carried on cargo vessels as a part of the total freight. The boxes, pens, etc. may be constructed ashore and lifted on board or constructed on the vessel.

Each of these shipment types may be further subdivided according to whether the sheep or goats are carried within an enclosed deck or an "open" exposed deck.

The length of voyage and size of vessel can vary considerably.

I. Pre-transport

I.1. Preliminaries

I.1.2. Planning of the journey. Sufficient supplies of wholesome food, fresh water and litter should be carried for the anticipated length of the voyage. Reserve supplies are recommended in case of delay. due to weather, mechanical failure or other cause. Food, litter and water should be stowed so that their quality cannot deteriorate during the voyage. Appropriate feed and drinking utensils should be provided. If it becomes necessary to supply unfamiliar tasting manufactured water during the voyage, this should be introduced to the animals gradually.

Sheep and goats should not be carried when the weather conditions anticipated for the voyage are such that the animals might suffer or be injured, for example by excessive motion of the vessel, spray or sea water on deck, strong winds or damage to or displacement of the transport unit. It should, however, be borne in mind that the ship's master is ultimately responsible for the animals' welfare during the voyage.

Masters, officers and the crew of vessels may be inexperienced in the carriage of sheep and goats, and therefore require special instructions before the start of the voyage. Where appropriate, it is recommended that consignors give ships' masters clear written instructions concerning feeding, watering, general care, emergency killing and, where appropriate, milking of the sheep or goats. Masters should be informed about where they can, if necessary, obtain veterinary advice.

I.1.4. Notification. It is important to ensure that the operators, masters and crews of vessels are made fully aware of livestock shipments before the start of the voyage, so that they can make any special arrangements needed to ensure proper stowage, securing, ventilation and access.

Consignors and vehicle operators should notify the shipping company at the time of making the booking, and attendants and drivers should ensure that the vessel's cargo/loading officer is aware that the transport unit contains a live cargo.

I.2. Preparation of the animal

I.2.4. Feeding and watering. Before any transport, the animals should be accustomed to the food they will be fed on the journey.

I.3. Preparation of the transport unit

I.3.1. Cleanliness. Those parts of a vessel where animals are stowed or through which they are moved should be so constructed as to enable them to be kept in a sanitary condition and to be regularly cleansed, and disinfected when necessary.

I.4. Designation of the person in charge

I.4.1. Attendant. A sufficient number of experienced attendants, who could be part of the ship's normal complement, should be provided for the voyage, taking into account its length and the number of sheep or goats to be carried ; in the case of Ro-Ro transport, the vehicle driver could act as attendant.

II. Loading

II.1. Facilities

II.1.1. Means of loading

Ro-Ro vessels

The individual circumstances of each vessel, voyage and vehicle load may vary considerably. Generally, it is preferable to load a livestock transporter as late as possible, and where feasible to unload it first. This will reduce the risk of harmful effects of a build-up of exhaust fumes from other vehicles.

Refrigerated and other high-sided vehicles should not be parked alongside the livestock vehicle.

Vessels designed to carry livestock

a. Where sheep and goats are walked on or off the vessel, suitable gangways, ramps and walkways should be provided between quayside and the vessel's livestock decks. Ship-to-shore gangways and ramps between different levels in the vessel should be fitted with foot battens and should not be unduly steep. The slope angle with the horizontal should not exceed 30°, and a smaller angle is to be preferred where sheep and goats are descending. The height of tide at the berth should be considered when arranging the time for loading/unloading, as this will affect the slope of the ramp.

A gangway/ramp/walkway width of between 0,4 and 0,6 m will permit the passage of one animal at a time. Sides should be guarded to a height of about 1,3 m. Doorways should be sufficiently wide and high for the animals to pass through without injury.

b. Where animals are lifted on and off the vessel, a suitably constructed, strong and secure loading box should be used. The animals should not be able to see out of the box whilst it is being lifted in the air. The crane driver must be made aware that he is lifting a live cargo, and he should ensure that the operation is undertaken steadily and without unnecessary swaying or jolting.

Other cargo vessels

If it is intended to lift the sheep and goats on or off the vessel in their transit boxes, these should be strong enough for the purpose. Otherwise, a loading box (see II.1.1.b. above) should be used.

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

III.1.1. Construction and design

All vessels

Ship motion and the effects of wind and sea can impose considerable extra strain on livestock containers, vehicles, fittings and equipment, so their construction and design must take this into account.

Excess water is liable to accumulate from rainfall, sea or spray over the deck and washing-down water. Adequate deck and floor drainage is therefore important.

Sheep and goats transported on an open exposed deck, by whatever method, must be suitably protected from spray or sea water coming over the deck, and should be provided with an overhead covering or roof.

Vessels designed to carry livestock

Those parts of a vessel where sheep or goats are penned or through which they are moved should be so constructed as to enable those areas to be kept in a sanitary condition and to be regularly cleaned, and disinfected when necessary.

Sheep and goat pens should be secure enclosures formed of metal railings, timber or other suitable materials. The height of pen sides and divisions must be sufficient for the size of the animals being transported, and in the case of adult animals not less than 100 cm high.

Pens and partitions shall be fixed securely.

Other cargo vessels

Sheep and goat pens should he similar to those described above for vessels specialised in carrying livestock.

Boxes or crates should provide adequate ventilation which may need to be adjustable to take account of changes of weather or climate.

Shipping containers can be successfully used for carrying sheep and coats provided that a suitable type is chosen, they are fitted out appropriately, and that their stowage is well planned.

The shipping container should be fitted out with pens, boxes or crates which should be secured within the container framework, the strength of which should be utilised wherever possible.

III.1.2. Securing. The containers, receptacles, vehicles, etc. in which sheep and goats are carried should be secured as necessary, so that they cannot be displaced by the motion of the vessel or the effects of the wind and sea.

Ro-Ro vessels

When anticipated weather conditions and ship motion so require, sheep and goat transport units should be properly secured before the start of the voyage to prevent them from moving or overturning. The transport unit should have sufficient and strong securing points fitted for the attachment of lashing devices.

III.1.3. Lighting. Sufficient lighting should be provided for tending the animals.

III.1.4. Stocking density. The indicative figures hereafter are considered to be satisfactory when sheep and goats of the following average weight are being transported: