Animals (2026). DOI: 10.3390/ani16071103"> Camels stepping onto the ramp, learning to self-load following the target ((A) camel of group A; (B) camel of group B). Credit: Animals (2026). DOI: 10.3390/ani16071103

Around the world, millions of camels are farmed for milk and meat while others are used in leisure activities like racing and riding. Yet the treatment of these animals as livestock can be harsh, especially during transport. New international research, led by Southern Cross University animal welfare expert Associate Professor Barbara Padalino and published in the journal Animals , shows that more humane camel transportation is possible by using food as an incentive in place of physical punishment.

Whipping, shouting and other traditional practices like shackling all increase the stress on the animals during truck loading and unloading, creating potentially hazardous situations for both camels and handlers.

Training camels with food rewards

The research team from the University of Bologna in…