Is it safe for animals to be shipped as cargo across country?

Shipping live animals as cargo across the country can pose several risks to their well-being and safety. While regulations exist to ensure proper handling and care during transport, there are inherent challenges associated with long-distance travel that can be stressful and even dangerous for animals.

1. Environmental Stress: Animals may be subjected to extreme temperatures, changes in air quality, noise, and vibrations during transport, which can cause stress and discomfort. Prolonged exposure to such stressors can lead to health problems.

2. Lack of Proper Care: Animals may not receive adequate attention, food, water, or bathroom breaks during the journey. This neglect can result in dehydration, malnutrition, and increased vulnerability to diseases.

3. Inadequate Ventilation: Cargo holds may not have sufficient ventilation, leading to poor air quality and respiratory issues for the animals.

4. Rough Handling: Mishandling of crates or inadequate packaging can cause injuries and stress to animals during loading, unloading, and transportation.

5. Mixing Species: Mixing different animal species in cargo holds can lead to conflicts, injuries, and the transmission of diseases.

6. Delays or Emergencies: Unforeseen delays or emergencies during transport can further prolong the animals' discomfort and exacerbate any existing health issues.

7. Accidents: Transportation accidents can cause severe injuries or death to the animals.

Although some animals, such as livestock, are routinely shipped as cargo, it's important to recognize the potential risks and ensure strict adherence to regulations and best practices. Alternatives to air or ground cargo transport, such as climate-controlled specialized vehicles, may provide a safer and more humane option for animal transport.