Animal transport drama in Melk: Two goats injured, investigation initiated!

Animal transport drama in Melk: Two goats injured, investigation initiated!

On June 18, 2025, the state traffic department Lower Austria carried out a check in the Melk district, in which a shocking incident occurred with animal transport. When checking a vehicle in which 32 goats were transported, there were significant defects that not only violated the legal provisions, but also endangered the well -being of the animals. According to police.news .

The control showed that the stand area of ​​the cargo space with only four square meters was far too small for the number of goats. It was particularly alarming that the temperatures in the cargo space were significantly higher than the outside temperature and some goats on the ground were unable to get up. Tragically, two animals died during transport. The 36-year-old driver from the Perg district was not only reported for cruelty to animals, but also had to take on responsibility in connection with several further violations.

animal protection regulations in the focus

The requirements for animal transport in Austria are clearly regulated. According to the provisions of the EU regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 and the national animal transport law of 2007, transports may only be carried out under conditions that ensure the well-being of the animals. It is legally prohibited to transport animals if injuries or unnecessary suffering can occur. This applies to all living vertebrates that are promoted in an economic connection, such as when buying or selling.

To ensure that transporting people have the necessary knowledge, you must complete special training courses. Any transport of animals must also be accompanied by a trained supervisor so that the legal requirements are fulfilled. The driver of the affected vehicle was unable to present the necessary documents, such as the transport company approval or the supervisor card, nor did he have the necessary steering authorization for the transported trailer load.

unexplained conditions and legal steps

After the control had uncovered the blatant defects, legal steps were immediately initiated. The vehicle driver and the approval owner of the trailer were reported to the district administrative authority. In addition, the St. Pölten public prosecutor's office is investigating the driver about the suspicion of cruelty to animals. Animals earn our protection and respect, especially during transport.

It is crucial that farmers and transport companies comply with the applicable regulations. These regulations, which are determined, among other things by the animal transport law and the EU regulation, not only protect the animals, but also ensure fair transport-related conditions. Even if it is possible for farmers to transport their own animals in their own means of transport via shorter routes, they are also obliged not to cause unnecessary suffering.

The incidents from Melk make it clear how important sensitization for animal welfare in transport is. Only through training and strict controls can it be ensured that such tragedies will be avoided in the future. It is also important that both society and the authorities have a watchful eye on compliance with animal welfare standards so that animals do not have to suffer during their transportation. In the coming weeks, this sad chapter will certainly have to be discussed in both the public and in specialist circles.