THE LIVE-EXPORT trade is a stain on our society.

Every year, nearly two billion cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and other animals are crammed onto filthy, crowded ships and tossed about on rough seas for days or even weeks – forced to stand in their own waste, often without adequate water, food, or veterinary care.

Many animals are trampled by their shipmates or die of dehydration, starvation, or illness.

Their suffering is compounded when accidents occur and ships are delayed, catch fire, or even sink.

In November 2019, a ship transporting 14,600 sheep capsized shortly after leaving port.

In spite of many days of rescue attempts, only 180 sheep survived the disaster.

Animals raised for their flesh and skin already endure miserable lives.

The least we can do is spare them the unnecessary trauma of an arduous journey overseas before they’re killed.

Monday, 14 June, is Ban Live Exports International Awareness Day – let’s use this occasion to contact policymakers and demand that they end this shameful trade.

And let’s also take personal responsibility.

The suffering of animals will only end once people stop eating and wearing animal-derived products.

Sascha Camilli

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)