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: