Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order (Northern Ireland) 1997

Part II Additional requirements for the transport of domestic dogs and domestic cats

Segregation of species

6.—(1) Animals shall not be carried in the same undivided pen, receptacle, vehicle or rail wagon as animals of another species, except in the case of companion animals if separation would cause either animal distress.

(2) Female animals in oestrus shall be separated from male animals.

(3) An animal shall not be carried with another animal if, having regard to the difference in age and size between those animals, unnecessary suffering is likely to be caused to one or both of those animals.

(4) Measures shall be taken to avoid injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal as a result of the carriage in the same undivided pen, receptacle, vehicle or rail wagon of animals which are hostile to each other.

(5) Measures shall be taken to avoid any animal being caused injury or unnecessary suffering by an animal which becomes fractious or aggressive during the journey.

(6) Segregation of animals in rail wagons may be effected either by means of suitable partitions or, if space permits, by tying them in separate parts of the rail wagon.

Duties of attendants

7.  The attendant or consignor’s agent shall look after the animals, and if necessary, feed and water them.

Special provisions for transport by water

8.  Vessels used for the transport of animals shall, before sailing, be provided with sufficient supplies of drinking water (unless they are equipped with a suitable system allowing its production) and appropriate foodstuffs, having regard to the species and number of animals being transported as well as the duration of the voyage.