Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

In recent years, the use of two-wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles and mopeds for animal transport has increased. It is well known that motorcycling involves several safety hazards compared with other modes of transportation, such as rider-related factors like alcohol use, behaviour, skill, use of protective gear and other risks related to road and weather conditions. Moreover, the transport offers economic and environmental benefits as it generates lower gas emissions, requires less fossil fuel and occupies less space. However, the rider’s attitude plays a crucial role in whether it is performed in a safe manner or not. Riders transporting animals do not only have to comply to the road traffic legislation but also the animal welfare legislation. Neither European nor Swedish animal welfare legislation specifically addresses transport on two-wheeled vehicles. In addition, there is limited research on animal transport on two-wheeled vehicles, especially around its effect on animal welfare. The purpose of this study was to investigate riders’ perceptions of animal responses, in connection to the transport, in order to identify potential animal welfare risks. In addition, the study aimed to investigate riders’ attitudes to transporting animals on two-wheeled vehicles, and whether attitudes differed between riders who had transported an animal and riders who had not. It was also investigated how the Swedish animal welfare legislation could be improved to safeguard animal welfare.
The data collection was conducted by publishing an online survey on multiple channels, e.g. through two large organisations connected to motorcycles and social media, as well as in magazines, websites and newsletters for members within one of these organisations. Data were also collected through semi-structured interviews with four individuals possessing expertise in different motorcycle-related areas. According to the findings, most of the riders had not transported an animal themselves but had observed other riders transporting animals. Among respondents who had experience of transporting an animal, many riders reported transporting dogs on motorcycles using custom-/self-made solutions, transport cages, or with other alternatives. These respondents also stated that they considered factors such as weather conditions, cage size, and protective equipment. Overall, riders reported relatively few observable changes in the animal’s response. However, the limited number of reported changes may reflect difficulties in detecting signs due to the manner of transport. Several riders did report that their animal appeared excited prior to transport. It was also found that the majority of these riders had a positive attitude toward transporting animals, whereas attitudes among riders without personal experience of transporting animals were more varied, although still predominantly positive. Several riders expressed concerns but stated that they would view the practice as either neutral or positive, provided that the animal’s welfare was considered and the transport was conducted safely. Based on the findings, Swedish legislation and inspection procedures were examined to identify ways of safeguarding animal welfare during transport on motorcycles and mopeds. Regarding animal welfare legislation, it was suggested that motorcycles and mopeds should be specifically addressed to clarify how animals may be transported on these vehicles. Regarding enforcement and inspection procedures, it was suggested that a dedicated inspection for animal transport on two-wheeled vehicles should be implemented.