EU
Calves Directive
Summary Description
Sets minimum animal welfare standards for calves by limiting the use of cages (individual pens) until the animal reaches eight weeks of age.
Topics
Species
Calves
Jurisdiction
EU
Sub-Jurisdiction
N/A
Type of Act
Legislation
Status
In force
Legal Value
Binding
Date Enacted
2008
Date Updated
June, 2023
Official Citation
Council Directive 2008/119 of 18 December 2008 Laying Down Minimum Standards for the Protection of Calves, 2009 O.J. (L 10) 7 - 13 (E.U.)
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Covers all calves for rearing and fattening (including on dairy farms).
- Sets minimum animal welfare standards:
Weaknesses
- Excludes calves older than six months and calves on farms with fewer than six calves from the scope of the legislation.
- Allows the use of cages (individual pens) for calves.
Related Laws/Policies
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