The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) emphasizes the importance of safeguarding animals from extreme temperatures, particularly during transportation in winter. Everyone involved in handling, transporting, or receiving animals must comply with legal obligations to ensure animals are not subjected to injury, suffering, or death throughout the process.
Legal Responsibilities for Animal Transport
Transport regulations in Canada apply to all parties involved in animal handling, including:
- Owners and producers
- Processors and assembly centres
- Feedlots and shippers
- Drivers
It is mandatory to ensure animals’ welfare during every stage of the journey, including loading, confinement, transportation, and unloading.
Winter Transport Recommendations
During colder months, additional measures are necessary to protect animals from harsh weather conditions. These measures include:
- Adjusting loading density: Ensure animals have sufficient space to stay warm while minimizing the risk of overcrowding.
- Providing extra bedding or insulation: Use materials like straw to help retain body heat and provide comfort.
- Increasing weather protection: Enhance the vehicle’s ability to shield animals from wind, snow, and freezing temperatures.
- Delaying transport if necessary: Wait for warmer conditions when extreme cold poses a significant risk.
Transporters should refer to the National Farm Animal Care Council’s Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Farm Animals – Transportation for comprehensive guidance.
Enforcement and Compliance
The CFIA recognizes that most Canadian producers and transporters prioritize humane treatment of animals. However, enforcement actions will be taken against those who fail to comply with federal animal welfare regulations. Penalties may include:
- License suspensions
- Charges and fines
- Prosecutions under federal laws
The CFIA also collaborates with provincial authorities to address violations of animal welfare regulations at the provincial level.
Learn More
For detailed information about humane transport and animal welfare, consult the CFIA’s resources and the National Farm Animal Care Council’s guidelines. Ensuring animal safety is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone involved in the agricultural and transportation sectors.
