In France, an animal is recognised as « a sensitive being, which should be placed by the owner under conditions consistent with the biological needs of its species » (rural code, Article L214.1 of the law n° 76-629 of 10th July 1976).
In order to assess the quality of animal welfare in livestock, it is often referred to as the "five freedoms". Defined by the Farm Animal Welfare Council (United Kingdom), these principles establish that the welfare of an animal is assured when the following conditions are met:
- the absence of hunger, thirst and malnutrition: free access to fresh water and adapted food in sufficient quantity;
- preservation of the animal's comfort: free access to an appropriate environment including at least a shelter and a sleeping area;
- the absence of physical pain, illness or injury: prevention or veterinary treatment following an early diagnosis;
- expression of the normal behaviour of the species: sufficient space and possibility of contact and interaction with other members of its species;
- the absence of fear or anxiety: treatment and living conditions which do not induce psychological distress.
Transportation is a delicate stage in the life of farm animals. Sources of stress can be numerous and increase when travel time increases. Thus, the European Regulation EC 1/2005 specifies the measures to be taken to improve conditions during transit (watering, feeding, resting, vehicle standards and loading densities).