The transport of cattle on double-deck trucks remains a problem with many cattle not having enough space above their backs. We have observed these transport problems at cattle slaughterhouses and public cattle-markets. Today we decided to also check if these problems exist at small, private cattle-collecting stations. We dropped by Pali collecting station. Despite coming … [Read more...] about Unannounced visit to Pali cattle collecting station in Belgium
transport
Observation of cattle transports Vion slaughterhouse in Tilburg
Eyes on Animals received several complaints from people within the transport sector concerning Vion in Tilburg. They claim that double-deck trucks not providing enough headroom for cattle were being regularly accepted causing unfair competition for companies that were trying to respect the "10cm above the withers" regulation. In the morning we observed 7 double-deck cattle … [Read more...] about Observation of cattle transports Vion slaughterhouse in Tilburg
Adequate headspace finally for cattle being transported to Vion slaughterhouse in Tilburg
On the 5th of September 2010, Eyes on Animals discretely observed cattle trucks arriving at VION slaughterhouse in Tilburg. We saw a number of double-decker transport trucks in which the cattle had insufficient headspace. As a result, the cattle were not able to maintain their natural posture, which could in turn cause serious injury to head and back. At the time, we … [Read more...] about Adequate headspace finally for cattle being transported to Vion slaughterhouse in Tilburg
Cattle loaded double-deck truck without enough space
We were disappointed to observe three transport companies load cattle from an assembly center onto double-deckers that did not provide enough head-space for the animals. In particular we were disappointed that one of the companies belongs to a quality system that we have faith in. We observed cattle on board Hans Snel, Hoekstra en Zon and J.A.Haan transport trucks where … [Read more...] about Cattle loaded double-deck truck without enough space
Inspection of a pig collecting station
During the 35-40 degree hot weather today, Eyes on Animals was checking on the welfare of animals being transported to slaughter or for further fattening. We therefore also dropped by an export collecting center where pigs are grouped and sent for export after being checked by an official Dutch veterinarian hired by the VWA. We were shocked to hear that the VWA had already … [Read more...] about Inspection of a pig collecting station