Aanhef

The member States of the Council of Europe, signatory hereto,

Considering that the aim of the Council of Europe is to achieve a greater unity between its members for the purpose of safeguarding and realising the ideals and principles which are their common heritage;

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

Motivated by the desire to safeguard the welfare of animals during transport;

Convinced that international transport is compatible with the welfare of the animals, provided that the requirements of animal welfare are met;

Considering, therefore, that where the welfare requirements of the animals cannot be met an alternative to the transport of live animals shall be implemented;

Considering, however, that in general, for reasons of animal welfare the period during which animals, including animals for slaughter, are transported should be reduced as far as possible;

Considering that loading and unloading are activities during which injuries and stress are most likely to occur;

Considering that progress in this respect may be achieved through the adoption of common provisions regarding the international transport of animals,

Have agreed as follows: