Applying legislation that relates to the welfare of animals
The two main legislations that relate to the welfare of animals are:
· Animal Research Act 1985
· Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.
Both Acts are relevant to your work in the animal industry, whichever animal workplace you choose to work. It is important to be aware of them and how to apply to your work.
Animal Research Act 1985
The Animal Research Act 1985 is concerned with protecting the welfare of animals that are being used in teaching or research. The Act provides laws for how animals must be housed and cared for, and controls what can be done to them and why.
Under the Act teaching is classed as research, so TAFE NSW must also comply with the Act, and justify the use of animals in teaching. Similarly, anyone working in a research situation, including a veterinary practice that takes part in drug trials or other research, must comply with the Act.
All animal care workers need to be aware of this Act because they may:
· work directly or indirectly for a research institution
· be involved in treating animals that are part of research
· they may be asked questions by the public and need to be aware of the Act.
Application of the Act
Appropriate courses of action regarding this Act include:
· ensuring that all research animals are correctly maintained
· ensuring that all research is conducted under the supervision of an Animal Care and Ethics Committee
· notifying of any suspected breaches of the Act.
Sources of information
Sources of information from the Internet:
· Department of Agriculture, Animal Welfare branch: www.agric.nsw.gov.au/reader/welfare
· ANZCART publications: www.Adelaide.edu.au/ANZCCART/
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 is concerned with protecting the welfare of animals in general, by controlling how they must be treated and cared for. It covers neglect, as well as actual physical cruelty.
New regulations have been passed which provide codes of practice for specific animal trades, including:
· pet shops
· animal boarding, breeding and transport establishments
· pet grooming establishments
· security dog establishments
· riding centres and boarding stables.
Application of the Act
All animal care workers need to be aware of that applying this Act means:
· caring for animals humanely
· recognising and notifying of any breaches of the Act
· advising clients on their responsibilities with the animals in their care.
Sources of information
· Department of Agriculture, Animal Welfare branch: www.agric.nsw.gov.au/reader/welfare
· RSPCA: www.rspca.org.au
· NSW government legislation: www.legislation.nsw.gov.au.
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© NSW DET 2007