EU Law

Improving the law protecting pig welfare 

The welfare of pigs is governed by legislation at EU level. This legislation is due to be reviewed in early 2010. It was originally due to be reviewed in 2008, but has been delayed. At the RSPCA, we believe that EU pig welfare legislation must urgently be reviewed will be campaigning to put pressure on MEPs to prevent further delays.

We’re calling for:

• Greater space allowances per pig
• Compulsory provision of bedding
• Provision of adequate quantities of appropriate material for environmental enrichment
• A ban on castration without anaesthetic
• For all other mutilations (tail docking, teeth clipping and nose ringing) only to be carried out when there are welfare-related reasons for doing so
• A gradual phase out of close confinement at farrowing

What can I do?

Visit our ‘take action’ pages to find out how you can support our Rooting for Pigs campaign.