Our objective is to protect and raise the
health status and condition of animals in the Community, in
particular food-producing animals, whilst permitting intra-Community
trade and imports of animals and animal products in accordance
with the appropriate health standards and international obligations.
Preventive health measures on intra-community
trade and imports of:
The European Commission's activities in
this area start with the recognition that animals are sentient
beings. The general aim is to ensure that animals need not
endure avoidable pain or suffering and obliges the owner/keeper
of animals to respect minimum welfare requirements.
EU legislation on the protection of animals
on the farm and in particular laying
hens, calves and pigs