Last week, we once again trained police officers to inspect animal transports. At the invitation of the Saxony-Anhalt State Reserve Police, we conducted a multi-day training session in collaboration with Animals' Angels and animal transport expert Dieter Adam, a retired police officer—featuring both a theoretical component and on-the-road inspections. 

Our project manager, Iris Baumgärtner, along with the other experts, taught the participating police officers the legal framework governing the transport of farm animals. Among other things, she demonstrated how law enforcement officials can document violations and secure evidence.

During the practical portion, supported by two official veterinarians, we inspected ten animal transports. This allowed the participants to apply their knowledge directly. The officers’ reactions speak for themselves: Many were shocked by the condition of the animals—especially broiler chickens and sows. Even if the transport weren't in breech of the EU transport regulation 1/2005.

Why these training sessions are so important: a recent case makes it clear

Almost at the same time, a large-scale inspection involving 100 vehicles was conducted in Oldenburg, focusing on live animal transport. The alarming result: more than 70 percent of the transports were found to be in violation. In several cases, the police initiated criminal proceedings for violations of the Animal Welfare Act. Among other things, they found a fattening pig that could no longer stand up, an injured cow that was being transported despite being in pain, and cattle that had so little space in the vehicle that their withers were bumping against the ceiling.

The fact that such inspections are now carried out consistently is also a result of our work. Two years ago, we led a workshop with Dr. Alexander Rabitsch at the Oldenburg Police Department—the very location where the large-scale inspection took place. At that time, we inspected over 20 livestock transport vehicles together with police and veterinary offices from several counties.

Those who look closely uncover animal suffering

Those who are aware of the issue and have seen animal suffering firsthand pay close attention. Our training programs lay the groundwork for identifying and penalizing violations. In addition, we conduct many inspections ourselves, document abuses, and file reports—often, it is we who bring problematic transports to light in the first place.