Animal movement licences

A licensing scheme has been implemented to regulate the movement of specific animals, including:

• Sheep
• Goats
• Pigs
• Cows

This is to prevent the spread of animal diseases like Foot and Mouth.

The conditions for these movements vary based on the animal type, destination, and purpose of travel. It's crucial to stay informed about the latest conditions when applying for a movement licence. This is because they may change periodically.

In some cases, you only need to complete the licence and submit the required copies. You can get the licences from your local DEFRA (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) office.

Further information

Further guidance can be obtained from:

• AHVLA website
• DEFRA Helpline on 08459 33 55 77

Welfare of Livestock in Transit

Livestock should be transported in a humane manner. Further advice can be obtained from DEFRA. Some simple points to remember include:

• animals should have water, feed, and 24 hours of rest before starting a journey
• animals should be fit to travel
• transport and trailers should be well-designed and constructed so as not to cause injury or suffering
• competent and trained people should load, unload and transport animals
• vehicles must be properly cleansed and disinfected
  • this should be done with adequate ventilation and protection from the weather
• animals must not be over-crowded
• anyone transporting livestock needs to be registered as an authorised transporter

If you have any concerns regarding the welfare of animals being transported, please contact us using the details in the 'Contact Us' section of this page.

Disposal of Animals and Animal By-Products

Strict regulations are in place to manage the disposal of fallen animals and animal by-products. This includes:

• carcasses
• blood
• fish 
• feathers 
• hides
• skin
• catering waste containing meat or animal products 

The approved method of disposal depends on the risk involved, but the two main methods are:

• incineration
• rendering

Further guidance can be found on the DEFRA website.