Julie LP/We Animals Media

Transportation with Compassion

In our rescue work, we sometimes need to transport animals, too. However, we bring animals to places of safety—never slaughter. Besides transporting animals safely to our New York and California sanctuaries, we have brought animals to trusted homes across the U.S. through our Farm Animal Adoption Network.

“There is no school of rescue,” says Mario Ramirez, Farm Sanctuary’s Director of Sanctuary Environment & Transport. Every rescue and every animal is different, he says, but there are some things we can always do to make transportation as stress-free as possible.

Below, Mario shares some of the ways that we transport with compassion:

Check weather conditions as far in advance as possible so we can plan alternate dates as needed

Get animals cleared as fit for transport by a veterinarian, and if they’re not, assess and plan for higher-risk transport

Inspect the truck and equipment pre-transport

Fill trailer with fresh bedding pre-trip and post-trip, disinfect trailer completely

When ready to go, “load” animals last to minimize their time in a trailer

Don’t overcrowd a trailer to avoid stress, injury, and overheating

Provide access to food and water during travel

Drive gently, not accelerating or braking quickly

Stop every 3-4 hours so we can switch drivers, check on animals, and top off water

Always bring a med kit and have someone on call for veterinary care

Bring corral panels in case the vehicle breaks down and we need to build a “barn” on the spot

In cold weather, provide extra bedding and close all vents

Avoid extreme heat transports, except when necessary

In hot weather, avoid peak heat hours, open all vents, keep fans running, provide ice water, make minimal stops, and only park in the shade

Shut off the engine while parked to avoid fumes

Keep a thermometer that we can check from the front of the truck

Know animal behavior and signs of stress or overheating

Plan overnight stays at other sanctuaries if needed

Take Action

Jo-Anne McArthur/We Animals Media

Please speak up for farmed animals today. Use our handy form to urge your elected officials to support the Humane Transport of Farmed Animals Act.

Act Now

July 25, 2024

July 25, 2024 Share

About Us

Caregiver kisses the face of a large white steer in sanctuary pasture

Greg steer & Sarah Rappleye, Animal Wellness Manager

Farm Sanctuary was founded in 1986 to combat factory farming and transform our food system for animals, people, and the planet. Our sanctuaries in New York and California welcome visitors for guided tours. You can even book a stay in one of our tiny houses or cabins in Watkins Glen. Plan a visit soon!

Greg steer & Sarah Rappleye, Animal Wellness Manager

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