The Member States of the Council of Europe, signatory hereto,Considering that the aim of the Council of Europe is to achieve a greater unity between its members for the purpose of safeguarding and realising the ideals and principles which are their common heritage,
Aware that every person has a moral obligation to respect all animals and to have due consideration for their capacity for suffering,
Motivated by the desire to safeguard the welfare of animals during transport,
Convinced that international transport is compatible with the welfare of the animals, provided that the requirements of animal welfare are met,
Considering, therefore, that where the welfare requirements of the animals cannot be met an alternative to the transport of live animals shall be implemented,
Considering, however, that in general, for reasons of animal welfare the period during which animals, including animals for slaughter, are transported should be reduced as far as possible,
Considering that loading and unloading are activities during which injuries and stress are most likely to occur,
Considering that progress in this respect may be achieved through the adoption of common provisions regarding the international transport of animals,
Have agreed as follows:
GENERAL PRINCIPLES