Animal category: Equines

In response to a parliamentary question on the ban on the transport of live animals, the European Commission acknowledges serious animal welfare problems during transport, particularly at borders, and emphasizes Member States' responsibility to effectively enforce existing rules. It highlights immediate operational measures, such as cooperation with Turkey and Bulgaria and the improvement of procedures via TRACES, along with an ongoing legislative review to strengthen animal protection. While supporting the increased use of trade in meat and genetic materials, the Commission takes the view  that the transport of live animals remains, in certain cases, necessary for the functioning of the relevant sectors.

Guidance note on reforming European regulations on the transport of live animals

Scientific article describing the development of two machine learning models for predicting  emotional states in ridden horses based on head and body images.

Review of 97 European studies showing that donkeys are mostly kept in extensive or semi-intensive systems, often with access to the outdoors. Nevertheless, recurrent management, nutritional and health problems (obesity, dental disorders, hoof problems) still compromise their welfare, stressing the need for specific care guidelines based on scientific data.

Study highlighting the fact that the social isolation of domestic stallions, a common on-farm practice,  leads to stress, stereotypies and reproductive disorders. It recommends that they be provided with greater social contact and conditions approaching their natural way of life, to improve their welfare and fertility.

Study showing that the loss of the companionship of another equid frequently leads to behavioral changes in horses (excitement, alertness, vocalizations, interactions) lasting up to 6 months, especially when there has been a strong emotional bond. The authors suggest that these behavioral changes could be grief-related. 

Parliamentary question on the Dutch notification to lower the maximum temperature for animal transport to 30°C, which could distort the EU's internal market. The Commission recalls that this issue is addressed in the current revision of the Animal Transport Regulation, and asks Member States to avoid divergent national measures, while taking into account the observations of stakeholders.

Scientific overview showing that human-animal interactions are beneficial to the welfare of both humans and animals, in various contexts and for vulnerable populations.

Parliamentary question on new EU animal welfare rules that risk penalizing small farms in Eastern Europe. The Commission is planning a proportionate approach that takes account of structural differences, with appropriate financial support. Harmonization is intended to avoid distortions of competitiveness in the single market.