At markets and fairs, animals are subjected to various stressors such as:
Driving and handling;
Unfamiliar surroundings, people, noises, smells;
Mixing with unfamiliar animals.
The aim of the AEMB guidelines is the minimising of stress for all animals by encouraging efficient, considerate treatment and handling: good handling also means less slips and falls, less bruises and in the case of slaughter animals better meat quality.
The AEMB guidelines include aspects of market facilities, organisation, training, information, animal handling and accommodation, fitness for transport and procedures for using and maintaining the market. They also contain recommendations (suggestions for action) for the care and treatment of sick and injured animals.
The guidelines have been developed in 2014, as an enhancement of the former AEMB guidelines of 2004 and they are AEMB intended for operators of animal markets and fairs and their staff.
The document has been fully endorsed by the animal welfare NGO Animals’ Angels.