Farm Animal Abuse During Transport. Police Unable to Act.

On June 17, 2023, an animal advocate discovered animal cruelty during transportation on a highway near Lviv.

A transporter was hauling a bull and two cows in a small trailer covered in blood from one of the cows. The animal’s leg had been broken during loading. The bull was trying to break free from the trailer. The transporter tried to tie it by the ring in its nostrils.

Advocate Anton called the patrol police. The patrol officers brought in investigators, but they took no action to stop the cruelty or seize the animals. They simply watched as the transporter slaughtered one of the cows right in front of them.

A veterinarian determined that the second cow had recently given birth to a calf that was immediately taken from her. The cow was being transported over a hundred kilometers to slaughter.

Anton bought the bull and cow from the farmer. The black-and-white cow died within a few days despite veterinary care. The bull survived.

AZOU provided legal assistance, but due to police negligence, the transporter will most likely not face punishment.

In Ukraine, farm animals are protected by law just like pets. Criminal liability for cruelty exists under Article 299 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.