Millions of animals including calves, sheep, horses and dogs are transported long distances every year throught Europe. Animals are often so tightly packed they can not even turn around easily or lie down comfortably and can be exposed to sweltering temperatures up to 35 degrees. Some animals even die in transit.

When the animals' journey comes to an end, their suffering may be far from over, many of the calves and sheep transported from the port of Ramsgate to the Continent are likley to be reared in conditions that would be illegal in England and Wales.

What can I do to help?

Unfortunatley, a recent European Commission report (November 2011) has proposed no changes to the current rules around live transport. However, a 'Written Declaration' has been tabled in the EU which calls for the 'establishment of a maximum 8 hour journey limit'.

Take action and e-mail your MEP asking them to sign Written Declaration 0049/2011 which calls for the establishment of a maximum 8 hour journey time.