The SPCA is opposed to all forms of transportation which compromise the well-being of all animals or which causes or may cause pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm.

Animals are transported by various means, however, transportation of live animals by sea, in particular livestock intended for slaughter holds serious animal well-being concerns. It is unnecessary to transport animals intended for slaughter by sea, especially if viable and humane alternatives exist close to the point of production. This method of trade causes pain, suffering and distress to many animals, including high mortality rates occurring during the voyage.

The SPCA advocates that the animals should be transported in carcass form.

The National Council of SPCAs remains steadfast in our statement of policy relating to live export of animals by sea and maintain that no country has the capacity or capability to ensure or guarantee animal welfare on livestock vessels. Our short-term objective is to ban the live export of animals by sea from South Africa across the equator.

Farm Animal Protection - Export of Live Animals by Sea

Animal well-being concerns with regards to the transportation of live animals by sea include but are not limited to:

  1. The conditions on the vessels are totally unnatural and do not provide for a suitable environment for the intended cargo of animals;
  2. Animals have to endure extended periods in inadequate and/or unnaturally small spaces including within the confinement of transport crates;
  3. Excessive lighting exposure resulting in lack of rest;
  4. Animals are subjected to unhygienic husbandry conditions during the voyage such as the build-up of faecal matter and urine; build-up of noxious gases such as ammonia; faulty or broken ventilation systems may result in animals suffering from heat stress or exposure to high levels of noxious gases such as ammonia;
  5. Due to the movement of the vessel, the animals may become injured or experience motion sickness;
  6. Unsuitable non-slip flooring may cause the animals to slip and become injured;
  7. Animals are at risk of being trampled by their companions;
  8. Water provision and suitable food for the animals may be compromised during the voyage;
  9. Provision of food and water is not necessarily accessible to every animal;
  10. Animals are forced to endure close proximity to humans for extended periods of time;
  11. Animals are transported without being accompanied by a veterinarian or experienced, trained and competent staff, resulting in a lack of provision of emergency treatment or euthanasia of animals where necessary;
  12. There is a lack of adequate treatment or quarantine sections on ships; and
  13. The offloading of animals is not necessarily monitored by any welfare organisation at the intended destination.
Your continued support of the NSPCA Farm Animal Protection Unit will assist us in our objectives to end this cruel and antiquated mode of animal transportation

Read more about the legal battle with Al Mawashi.