http://www.eurofawc.com/ EuroFAWC.com Thu, 25 Aug 2011 12:43:14 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-98   Country: Great Britain   Name of Organisation: Farm Animal Welfare Committee   Link to website: http://www.defra.gov.uk/fawc   Terms of reference:   The Committee’s Terms of Reference are:   To provide independent, authoritative, impartial and timely advice, to Defra and the Devolved Administrations in Scotland and Wales:         - on the welfare of farmed animals, including farmed animals on agricultural land, at market, in transit and at the place of killing; and         - on any legislative or other changes that might be considered necessary to improve standards of animal welfare  To provide independent scientific support and advice as required by Article 20 of Council Regulation (EC) No.1099/2009 on the protection of animals at the time of killing.   Short outline of structure: Following a review of government bodies in the UK the Farm Animal Welfare Council was abolished as a Non-Departmental Public Body on 31 March 2011 and was replaced by the Farm Animal Welfare Committee, an expert committee within the English Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (also reporting to government departments in Scotland and Wales). The Committee comprises 18 counsellors, appointed by government departments in England, Wales and Scotland (Great Britain). Appointment is on merit against specifications, and is normally for two terms, each of three years. The counsellors come from various backgrounds, e.g. livestock farming, veterinary medicine and academia.   Short outline of working methods:   The Committee works to a strategic plan. Advice takes three forms, i.e. reports, opinions (short reports) and letters. At present there are three working groups investigating major topics (e.g. disease and farm animal welfare) with a report published after about three years. With resource constraints this will soon reduce to one working group at any one time. About two opinions are published annually (e.g. the welfare of the dairy cow, enriched cages for laying hens) and these are prepared by one of three standing committees (Pigs, Poultry and Fish; Ruminants; and Ethics, Economics, Education and Regulation). An additional standing committee on Welfare at Killing is being established to provide the independent scientific support and advice to UK governments as required by Article 20 of Council Regulation (EC) No.1099/2009 on the protection of animals at the time of killing. About six letters are sent to GB governments and other organisations (e.g. the European Commission) annually. Extensive consultation takes place with stakeholders in preparing advice, which is based upon scientific evidence, experience and other information. Where there is scientific or moral doubt, then the animal is given the benefit. All advice is published on the website.   Publications:   Advice from the Farm Animal Welfare Committee will be published on its Website – http://www.defra.gov.uk/fawc   Reports, Opinions and other advice produced by the former Farm Animal Welfare Council can be accessed via The (UK) National Archive - http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110405232041/http://www.fawc.org.uk/   Contact details:   FAWC Secretariat Area 8B 9 Millbank c/o Nobel House 17 Smith Square  London SW1P 3JR   Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7238 ext 5016 / 6340 Email:        fawcsecretariat@defra.gsi.gov.uk UK, Farm Animal Welfare Council Thu, 25 Aug 2011 12:43:14 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-59   As discussed in the EuroFAWC-meeting in January 2010 in Baarn (The Netherlands)  Good welfare for dairy cows without access to pasture is only possible under strict conditions. Otherwise, pasture is mandatory. The finding that the welfare of dairy cows has not improved over the last 10 to 15 years is a welfare concern. The concept of 'quality of life' for cows has not yet been defined. Dairy Cow Welfare Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:58:44 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-58   As discussed in the EuroFAWC-meeting in January 2010 in Baarn (The Netherlands)   Controlling the population of feral cats  Originally, cats were not part of the European ecosystem. Feral cats are a nuisance and should be removed over time. This problem should be tackled on two levels: i) by preventing domestic cats from becoming feral cats (individual level) and ii)by keeping the population of feral cats under control (group level). Each national body has to decide how to go about these two aspects. Mandatory sterilization and identification of domestic cats may keep them from becoming feral cats. It is the citizens who are the owners of their (identified) cats. Controlling the population of feral cats can be done by means of a trap-neuter-release programme or a trap-euthanise programme. A TNR-programme can only be succesful if applied on a large scale and on 100% of the population. Attention should be paid to the quality of life after cats have been put back; this means that long-term financial support (to provide shelter and food) is necessary.   Selective breeding   The problem of selective breeding is not restricted to companion animals. Selective breeding is a multi-factorial problem: international breeding companies, lack of genetic variation, subjective breeding standards, registration of the breeders, etc. Some believe a legal basis to reduce selective breeding is necessary. However, there are doubts on the feasibility of its enforcement. More education is needed regarding genetic welfare problems. Companion Animal Welfare Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:58:23 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-6      As discussed in the EuroFAWC- meeting in January 2009 in Vienna.   Castration of pigs is a mutilation and should not be carried out without strong justification Where castration is necessary, it should be carried out with minimal pain, suffering and distress Pain relief should be given, and thus efforts should be made to ensure that practical means of delivering pain relief is available as soon as possible   Castration could be avoided if Boar taint could be detected at the abattoir Semen could be sexed without detrimental effects to the offspring The preferred methods of castration in terms of animal welfare are: Immunocastration, provided the welfare of entire males can be ensured Castration with anaesthesia and post-operative analgesia and care Piglet Castration Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:51:54 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-96 As discussed in the 2011 EuroFAWC meeting in Bergen EuroFAWC agrees that animals suffer considerably when killed without stunning EuroFAWC strongly supports initiatives to phase out slaughter without stunning Slaughter without stunning Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:49:11 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-95 As discussed in the 2011 EuroFAWC meeting in Bergen Opportunities for improved animal welfare must be provided by human beings; Economics and other social sciences are keys to finding the right incentives for this to happen; Therefore it is important in the future for animal welfare councils to include social science as part of the foundation for much of their policy advice. Economics and Animal Welfare Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:46:20 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-26         Council for Animal Affairs (Raad voor Dierenaangelegenheden, RDA)   Link to website: www.RDA.nl     Scope/Mission statement: The Council for Animal Affairs is an expert panel advising the minister of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation on issues regarding animal welfare and animal health. The Council's advice is based on the latest scientific, social and ethical developments.   Short outline of structure: The Council for Animal Affairs consists of independent experts. These experts are either scientific experts or experts in a specific field of animal husbandry. Experts of the latter category are appointed in the Council for their specific knowledge and/or their network in their respective fields.   All members of the Council are appointed in a personal capacity: their membership is therefore independent and without charge or consultation. Members of the Council working in a specific field of animal husbandry are by no means representatives of any sector or organisation.   The Council comprises of a wide range of experts. As the members of the Council will be asked to participate in a certain Forum (see Outline of working methods underneath) when their specific expertise is required there is no formal restriction set to the number of members in the Council.   Recent reports:   Visibly Better; a report on the roles and responsibilities of veterinarians.      Download English translation here.     Responsible Animal Keeping; a fundamental approach to the roles and responsibilities regarding captive animals.      Download English translation here.     Moral Issues and Public Policy on Animals; introducing the Assessment Model for Animal Policy.      Download English translation here.     Breeding and Reporoductive Technologies; introducing a framework for adressing moral issues regarding animal breeding and reproductive technologies.      Download English translation here.   Contact details: Raad voor Dierenaangelegenheden Mr. L. (Laurens) Hoedemaker, DVM First Secretary telephone:   ++ 31 70 378 5258 mobile:        ++ 31 6 5207 7070 e-mail: l.hoedemaker@rda.nl   Mrs. S.T.M. (Sandra) van der Nat, secretary P.O. Box 20401 2500 EK  THE HAGUE The Netherlands telephone:    ++ 31 70 3785266 e-mail: s.vd.nat@rda.nl   Publications: All publications of the Council for Animal Affairs from 1995 till now can be found on the website www.rda.nl. Some of them are available in English. Netherlands Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:24:28 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-8          2012: The seventh EuroFAWC- meeting will be held in Belgrade, Serbia on Tuesday 27th and Wednesday 28th March 2012.   Topics for this meeting are: "Positive Welfare", "Necessary Suffering" and Welfare of animals in shelters.   If possible, the meeting will be preceded or followed by an open, full day conference on Animal Welfare. Next meeting Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:42:28 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-9 2006:   Berlin, Germany   2007:   Brussels, Belgium   2008:   Prague, Czech Republic   2009:   Vienna, Austria   2010:   Baarn, The Netherlands   2011:   Bergen, Norway     Recent meetings Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:05:18 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-56                        Name of organisation: National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC)                                                                    NAWAC is not a member of EuroFAWC but has an invited observer role.    Link to website: http://biosecurity.govt.nz/regs/animal-welfare/nz/nawac             Terms of reference: The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is a ministerial advisory committee established under the Animal Welfare Act 1999. The function of the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee is to advise the Minister of Agriculture on any matter relating to the welfare of animals in New Zealand. In particular NAWAC provides advice to the Minister on legislation and codes of welfare relating to farmed, domestic, wild and pest species.    Short outline of structure: NAWAC is comprised of 11 members appointed by the Minister. Members serve in a personal capacity representing particular areas of expertise including veterinary, animal, agricultural, medical and veterinary science, the commercial use of animals, ethics, conservation, animal welfare advocacy, companion animals, education and public interest, and not as representatives of their employer or nominating body. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) provides scientific, policy and legal advice as well as secretariat support.   Short outline of working methods: The full Committee meets four times a year with subcommittees meeting on an as-needed basis to work on a particular code of welfare or topic. One of NAWAC’s key roles is the development and recommendation of codes of welfare to the Minister for issue. The Act provides for the development of codes of animal welfare and gives legal force to the minimum standards that they contain. Codes specify minimum standards and promote best practice for the care and management of animals. The committee recommends a code of welfare to the Minister following consultation with affected parties, public consultation and independent peer review. Each code is accompanied by a report detailing the reasons for NAWAC’s recommendations and any significant differences of opinion identified during the public submission process.    Future reports: In 2011 NAWAC expects to recommend to the Minister of Agriculture codes of    welfare for: transport of animals in NZ, meat chickens, and goats. The 2005 layer hens code is  currently under review and a code for llamas & alpacas is being developed. Advice to the Minister on the indoor housing of dairy cattle and the associated welfare risks is also being developed. The Animal Welfare Act 1999, which sets core obligations on those responsible for the care of animals, came into force on 1 January 2000. The Act is in the early stages of a review, with public consultation expected in 2012. NAWAC will have a leading role in recommending change and providing advice to the Minister throughout the review process.    Contact details: NAWAC Secretary MAF Animal Welfare Standards P O Box 2526 WELLINGTON 6140   Phone: ++ 61 4 894 0915 Email: nawac@maf.govt.nz   Publications: NAWAC has several publications Annual reports Codes of Welfare Guidelines which set out the principles and procedures by which it operates Access to publications: All publications can be accessed on the MAF Biosecurity website http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/regs/animal-welfare/pubs Hard copies can be requested by email.      New Zealand Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:55:48 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-21    Norwegian Council for Animal Ethics   Link to website:  http://www.radetfordyreetikk.no/              Scope and mission statement The Norwegian Council for Animal Ethics is an independent advisory body appointed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Coastal Affairs. The council for animal ethics will:  Stay informed and evaluate fundamental ethical aspects of all types of animal husbandry and utilisation of animals, including relations to wild animals. Assess the use of direct and indirect biotechnological principals on animals. Consider ethical aspects of modern breeding and animal husbandry, including conservation of genetic diversity and considerations for biological resources in the wild. Examine the need for altering existing regulations and public administration practices within animal welfare, and advice the Authorities on these matters. Contribute to a running discussion in society about animal ethics, and work to influence the public’s attitudes. Short outline of structure Leader: Gudbrand Bakken  Member, ethics: Ellen-Marie Forsberg Member, aquatic animals, primary producer: Karl Olaf Jørgensen Member, terrestric animals, primary producer: Brita Skallerud  Member, animal welfare organisations: Guri Larsen Member, aquatic animals, researcher: Ingrid Olesen Member, terrestric animals, researcher: Morten Bakken   Short outline of working methods Approximately 5 meetings each year and one field visit. Publish approximately 3-4 ethical advice about animal welfare each year. Give advice on suggested legislation about animal welfare.   Contact details Address: Ann Margaret Grøndahl (secretary) VeterinærinstituttetPostboks 750 Sentrum0106 Oslo Norway   E-mail address: ann-margaret.grondahl@vetinst.no     Some statements from the Norwegian Council on Animal Ethics   Childrens book about animal welfare and ethics (2011), Verdt å vite – om dyras liv (Good to know - how animals live) Some pages of the book can be seen at: http://www.blaiboka.no/index.php?isbn13=9788279591566#/0   Ethical considerations of our keeping and breeding of horses (2011)   Predators and pasture animals (2010)   Ethical considerations of our keeping and breeding of dogs (2010)   Releasing reared fish into fresh water (2009) Summary Releasing fish into fresh water to increase the interest for angling is gaining popularity. In the Council’s opinion it is important that the water is evaluated regarding its nutritional resources and the occurrence of other fish before releasing. This information is important to secure the released fish food. The initial evaluation should be followed up with an investigation some months after release to gain information about the quality of the water as environment for the released fish.     Immunological neutering of pigs (2009) Summary Surgical neutering of male pigs is common in Norway, and is performed under anaesthesia and with post operative pain management. The neutering is performed by veterinarians. The Council was asked to evaluate immunological neutering since other alternatives to reduce boar taint are still lacking. The Council believes that immunological neutering may be an alternative to surgical neutering based on welfare evaluations. However, the animals must be constrained in acceptable ways during the injection. In addition, research should be performed to develop alternatives to surgical and immunological neutering.     1.3 Animal breeding in an ethical perspective (2009) Summary Modern breeding has to a large extent increased the production of meat, milk and eggs. In Norway, most breeding programs have included welfare parameters in addition to production parameters. In the Council’s opinion, poultry breeding has resulted in health and welfare problems and reduced genetic variation. Dog breeding mainly based on exterior characteristics has also resulted in specific health and welfare problems in many breeds. Habituation to humans is important especially in fur animals. In pigs, the breeding should increase focus on bone quality and maternal care. It is important to maintain genetic variation for future needs, and the breeding should secure good health, welfare and functions of the animals.     Statement on Hunting and wildlife management (2007/2008) Summary The Council for Animal Ethics has evaluated aspects of wildlife management and hunting from an animal welfare perspective. First, various reasons for hunting is described. The Council has not taken a stand on hunting per se, but on principal grounds a minority (of the council members) disapprove of hunting and fishing for leisure. Various forms of hunting (weapons, methods for hunting, trapping and fishing) and some approaches to public administration of hunting (seasonal limitations and controlled and limited harvesting) are discussed with respect to animal welfare. Commercial hunting (whale- and seal hunting) are not considered. The Council believes that that one should have proper reason for killing an animal, irrespective of its species. Killing an animal for amusement only is not ethically acceptable. If the purpose is to use the game for meat or to limit the size of an animal population it is, nevertheless, essential that with respect to animal welfare hunting, trapping or fishing is performed in an ethical way. In situations where several alternatives exist, the most humane method should be chosen. The Council believes that a theoretical proficiency test should be compulsory for all hunters, including those hunters who were exempted from the test because they were registered prior to its implementation. The compulsory course should convey good attitudes to hunting, and regard for animals, and it should contribute to increasing the hunters’ awareness of their responsibilities. The Council further believes that demands to the practical skills in the proficiency test should be increased, and that the number of attempts to pass the practical test should be limited. Recent research has indicated that the efficacy of ammunition is variable. The Council advises that more detailed documentation, than currently requested, should be demanded for ammunition that is sold in Norway. The Council is concerned for the risk of wounding, especially during bird hunting. Because the help of a dog may be necessary to find a wounded bird, the Council is critical to the banning of dogs from some hunting terrains. The Council requests that the Authorities consider making the presence of a search dog/retrieving dog compulsory for all hunting. Burrow hunting with a dog entails a relatively long period of stress for the fox/badger, and there is danger of injury to both the dog and the game. The Council consider the hunting form where the fox/badger is shot while eating bait is a more humane form of hunting. The Council holds the opinion that burrow hunting is unnecessary and that it should be prohibited. Burrow tests for hunting dogs should not be performed. The Council calls for a tightening of the regulations concerning hunting traps. In order to be approved a killing trap should render the animal unconscious within seconds, and the animal should remain unconscious until it dies from its injuries. Of importance is also reporting and inspection of traps. Public administration of game should be founded on considerations for the ecosystem. By this is meant that the protection of biological diversity, not economic profit, should be the primary driving force in decision making.      Hunting, catching and fishing of animals in captivity, and release of reared animals in to the wild for hunting/angling (2005) Summary The Council for Animal Ethics has, on request from the Norwegian Food Control Authorities, evaluated whether it is ethically acceptable to 1) arrange angling of reared fish and caught wild fish kept in nets, and hunting of mammals in captivity, and 2) to release reared animals (mammals, birds, and fish) into the wild for the purpose of hunting and catching. The Council believes that the strain inflicted on an animal must be weighed against that benefit this has to humans. The use animals for recreational purposes or for excitement cannot be considered of vital importance to humans. Therefore, the Council has emphasised the consideration for the animals and animal welfare in this evaluation. The Council believes that animals should be kept in a manner that ensures good animal welfare and that they should be killed in an as humane way as possible. The Council has evaluated animal welfare in the following situations: 1) catching of wild animals 2) captivity 3) hunting/fishing in closed systems 4) release of reared animals into the wild for the purpose of hunting/fishing. The Council expresses concern for animal welfare standards during catching and restitution of wild animals including fish that are caught in the wild and placed in cages, enclosures or nets. The concern includes conditions for the animals in captivity, especially when it is desirable that the animal maintains its natural fear of humans. On principal ethical grounds the Council is sceptical to a practice where animals are released into confined areas for the purpose of hunting/fishing. The majority of the Council members believe that such practices can be acceptable if the total strain inflicted on the animals before, during and after the hunting/fishing is less than would be the case in the alternative use of the animal (se separate statement by the minority). Businesses that offer angling in nets and enclosures do not rely on using fish caught in the wild because they can use farmed fish. The majority of Council members believe that, in general, angling in a closed system is acceptable in certain conditions: the fish must be provided with good living conditions including sufficient space, acceptable water quality, suitable feed and a good environment that is as close as possible the natural biotope. Equipment used for angling must be dimensioned in such a way that the fish may be brought to the surface without delay. Further, the fish must be rendered unconscious/killed immediately by a competent person after it is brought to the surface. In total, the fish must be subjected to less strain that would have been the case in a normal rearing and slaughter situation. The Council believes that hunting in enclosures is unacceptable, and supports continuation of the present ban. The Council further believes that from an animal welfare perspective it may be questionable to release reared game and fish into the wild. This also applies to situations where it seems ethically appropriate, such as for conservation of endangered species. Considerations of animal welfare should be thoroughly evaluated and accounted for in advance, and the rearing environment must ensure good animal welfare and health as well as prepare the animals for a life in the free, including the winter season. This means that certain species must be ruled out and it sets high expectations to the standard of rearing conditions. The Council believes that it is doubtful whether recently released animals may be considered as wild. Hunting should be prohibited in the same period (same year) that the game are being cared for after release.     Neutering (2001) Summary The animal protection act is not consistent regarding permission to neuter animals. For some species neutering is prohibited, while other species may be neutered by lay people without anaesthesia. The Council for Animals Ethics believes that there is need for a thorough review of the legislation. In their evaluation, the Council emphasises considerations for animal’s integrity and their possibility for a natural life. The Council believes that it is not acceptable to remove body organs from healthy, normal animals in order to make them better suited for production or as family pets. In general terms, neutering should be prohibited. However, it cannot be denied that in our keeping of animals it is necessary to put some limitations on the natural behaviour of animals. Many adult domestic animals never have the opportunity to express natural sexual behaviour. A general ban on neutering will not lead to a situation where most animals express natural sexual behaviour, but rather to a situation where their sexuality is controlled by other means. This control could be source of considerable frustration for the animals. There is no doubt that some animals may be granted greater freedom and possibly have a better existence after neutering, such as for example bulls that can be let out on pasture after castration. If the animal’s integrity and natural behaviour is emphasised in decision making, one may argue for neutering rather than against it in many situations. The Council believes that it should be determined by law that in the decision to neuter an animal emphasis should be given to the individual animal’s integrity and its possibility for expressing natural behaviour. Permission to neuter should be given in situations where this is in the interest of the animal or that it has a minor effect on the animal’s natural behaviour and situation. In the Council’s opinion this will not open for routine neutering of dogs, but that the individual animal’s living situation must be considered before neutering is performed. Neutering for convenience should not be permitted. It should be an absolute requirement that without exception neutering of animals should be performed under anaesthesia and with post operative pain management.     Angling - "catch and release" (1998) SummaryA form of angling where fish, once caught, are then released, known as "catch and release", is prevalent in a number of countries. The authorities are now considering whether the concept should be introduced as a way of limiting catches in some Norwegian rivers. The "catch and release" concept is a new principle in natural resource management compared with the catch regulation measures adopted previously. "Catch and release" completely separates fishing from its original purpose, which was to procure food. In the view of the Council, it is important to support and develop attitudes that safeguard natural resources and manage them in a sustainable manner. This also entails a respect for life. There is little doubt that fish experience pain and stress in connection with fishing, regardless of whether they are killed or released. The difference is that a fish that is caught and released is subjected to this stress merely to satisfy people's need for recreation. The suffering and damage inflicted on the fish in this connection is disregarded. The Council does not find it ethically acceptable to use live animals in this way. If the fishing stock is so low that it will not tolerate harvesting the alternative in the view of the Council is not to fish. Against this background, the Council advises against the introduction of "catch and release" as a resource management measure in Norway.   For more information, see: http://www.radetfordyreetikk.no/translations-to-english/ Norway Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:54:44 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-16   Farm Animal Welfare Council (nominated the first time in 2009)   Link to website: http://elaintenhyvinvointikeskus.edublogs.org/ This is the website or blog of the Finnish centre for animal welfare, and the Finnish FAWC communicates for the time being through this site.   Logo --     Scope To improve farm animal welfare in Finland in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, other authorities and other parties in farm animal production.     Mission statement --     Short outline of structure The Finnish FAWC includes fifteen members and their personal deputies in addition to the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. It has a broad representation from all the central participants in production animal welfare, from producer to consumer, in accordance with the field-to-farm principle. The members represent practical agricultural expertise, animal welfare, social and economic sciences, ethical concerns on production animal husbandry, animal protection officers, practical animal protection control, voluntary animal protection societies, agricultural advisory organizations, food industry, retailers and consumers.     Short outline of working methods The Finnish FAWC assists the Ministry on production animal welfare issues and policy formulation. The Council monitors and assesses production animal welfare status in Finland. It makes proposals for the Ministry on improvements in welfare and evaluates initiatives and suggestions on production animal welfare issues. The Council can use three national networks in its work: namely, The Research Centre for Animal Welfare, The Finnish Centre for Animal Welfare and The AniWel Graduate School.     Working titles of future reports The Finnish FAWC has issued statements concerning the dehorning of calves, castration of piglets, animal welfare research and education, and common information on animal welfare and animal keeping. The statements are published in Finnish and will be published in English soon. http://www.mmm.fi/fi/index/etusivu/elaimet/tehvnk.html   The Finnish Centre for Animal Welfare is preparing the first major report on animal welfare in Finland. It will be discussed in the Council in autumn 2011, and the summary will be published in English. http://elaintenhyvinvointikeskus.edublogs.org     Contact details satu.raussi@helsinki.fi   The Finnish FAWC Chairman Hannu Saloniemi Professor, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ECVPH hannu.saloniemi@helsinki.fi   The Finnish FAWC Secretary Satu Raussi, PhD Head of the Finnish centre for animal welfare PB 27 00014 University of Helsinki Finland satu.raussi@helsinki.fi   Finland Thu, 14 Jul 2011 11:26:23 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-12 Name of organisation Council of Animal Welfare   Link to website www.raadvoordierenwelzijn.be or www.conseildubienetreanimal.be     Logo --     Scope/Mission statement The Animal Welfare Council (AWC) advises the Belgian Minister for Public Health on animal welfare topics, at the request of the Minister him/herself, the Animal Welfare Department of the Federal Public Service of Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment or members of the AWC. The opinions take into account the latest scientific, ethical and social developments.     Short outline of structure The AWC is composed of maximum 18 members, which are representatives from animal rights orgiansations and other associations defending the interests of producers, breeders, consumers or veterinarians. Also four or five members of the Executive Board are included in the AWC. These latter are experts from universities, known for their work in relation to animal welfare.    Short outline of working methods The Minister, the Animal Welfare Department or a member of AWC asks the Council for an opinion on a specific subject. This request is scheduled in the agenda of the Executive Board. The AWC appoints a coordinator for the working group and assigns a scientific advisor to the subject. The scientific advisor prepares, in consultation with the coordinator, a scientific report including a scientific literature review, the relevant legislation in other countries, and practical information. The Executive Board assesses the report and delivers a scientific opinion. The coordinator sets up a working group of maximum 10 representatives from all parties involved. The working group discusses the subject and issues an opinion which has to be submitted successively to the Executive Board and the AWC for adoption. Once adopted, the opinion is sent to the Minister.   Contact details Animal Welfare Council of Belgium Federal Public Service Public Health Victor Hortaplein 40 box 10 B-1060 Brussels      Publications Tail docking in certain dogs breeds  -  Discussion on the necessity of tail docking of dog breeds Tail docking in Belgian draught horses  -  Discussion on the necessity of tail docking of horses Animals kept on the pasture  -  Discussion on the necessity for shelter based on the thermal comfort and comfort zones Cats in shelters and feral cats  -  Discussion on the solutions to reduce the number of feral cats and to solve the problem of overpopulation in shelters Tail docking of sheep  -  Discussion on the necessity of tail docking of sheep Housing of laying hens  -  Assessing the relevance of a supplementary study on establishments keeping laying hens with a (covered) free range area Keeping raptors by individuals  -  Discussion on keeping birds of prey in captivity (without regulations) Slaughter of cattle and sheep  -  Best slaughter practices and discussion on religious slaughtering Alternatives to the castration of piglets  -  Discussion on the alternatives on castration of piglets without anesthetics The use of electric collars for dogs  -  Discussion on the use of electric training collars, electric fences, anti-bark collars for dogs Horses kept outdoors (2010) - Guidelines for keeping horses outside The import of dogs into Belgium (2010) - Discussion on allowing associations to import dogs from abroad Integration of the dog in society: socialising dogs (2011) - Recommendations on how to better integrate dogs into society   Working titles of future reports Housing of rabbits Fairground horses Extreme breeding Dolphins in dolphinaria   Access to publications www.animalwelfarecouncil.be   Belgium Thu, 14 Jul 2011 11:18:33 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-17   Animal Welfare Council (Tierschutzrat TSR) at the Federal Ministry of Health (Bundesministerium für Gesundheit BMG)     Website http://www.bmg.gv.at/cms/site/standard.html?channel=CH0803&doc=CMS1206011579898     Logo --      Scope: According to Austrian Federal Animal Protection Act (Tierschutzgesetz TSchG) 2004/2007 (BGBl. I Nr. 118/2004, amendments BGBI. I Nr. 54/2007 and BGBl. I Nr. 80/2010) Art. 42 the TSR deals with all animals, but the main focus is on vertebrates, especially husbandry, housing, handling, transport, slaughter and killing (euthanasia) of farm animals, pet animals, hobby and sport animals and wild animals (in zoos and in homes). Definitely excluded from that law are hunting and fishery. Those fields are regulated by province law and their state of the art is defined by tradition and put down by the rules of the respective organizations.     Mission statement: Advisory service to the federal minister of health, which in Austria is responsible for the federal competences in animal welfare (legislation).     Short outline of structure: According Art. 42 para. (2) TSchG 2010 the TSR consists of 22 members entitled to vote and the chairman without voting power. Members are partly directly named by the law and partly nominated by organisations and appointed by the minister. Members represent stakeholders, i.e. interest groups (NGOs), ministries involved (of Health and of Agriculture), Chamber of commerce, Chamber of veterinarians, Chamber of Labour, Chamber of Agriculture, as well as science (3 Universities, Umbrella- Zoo- Organisation, 1 Federal Research Institute) and the 9 Animal Welfare Ombudsmen (one of each Austrian province).   Short outline of working methods: At least two meetings per year. Every member can pose a problem to be discussed on the agenda of a meeting if requested at least three weeks in advance. Decisions are made by absolute majority of the members present. More complex problems or questions are delegated to one of six permanent working groups (1) protection of farm animals, (2) animal welfare at commercial trading of animals, (3) protection of sport-, hobby- and pet animals, (4) protection of wild animals and animals in zoos, (5) protection of animals at transport and (6) general advancement of animal welfare, or to an “ad hoc- working group” which then works out a draft opinion on a specific topic. A public version (with no names) of the minutes of the meetings are published on the website as well as yearly reports.   Contact details: Prof. Dr. Helmut Bartussek (chairman) Vorsitzender des Tierschutzrates Bundesministerium für Gesundheit, Abteilung II/B/6 Radetzkystraße 2 1030 Wien Austria Telephone : +43 664 8312910 Email: helmut.bartussek@bmg.gv.at   Publications: Public versions (with no names) of the minutes of the meetings of the Austrian Animal Welfare Council as well as yearly reports are published on the website: http://www.bmg.gv.at/home/Schwerpunkte/Tiergesundheit/Tierschutz/Tierschutzrat_/Protokolle_der-Sitzungen_des_Tierschutzrates     Austria Fri, 08 Jul 2011 12:53:22 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-61 Denmark   Name of Organisation  The Animal Ethics Council (Det Dyreetiske Råd)      Link to website: (in Danish only) www.justitsministeriet.dk/dyreetiskeraad.html     Scope: The Council follows developments regarding protection of animals based on ethical considerations. The Ministry of Justice can at any stage consult the Council when drafting animal welfare legislation or when general issues relating to animal welfare arise. Furthermore, the Council has the authority to make statements on its own initiative regarding animal welfare.    Structure: The Animal Ethics Council consists of eleven members who are appointed for 3 years by the minister of justice. Two members are appointed on the recommendation of animal welfare societies, tow on the recommendation of farmers' organisations and ond member on the recommendation of the Consumer Council. In the composition of the Council the minister seeks to ensure that members include persons with expert knowledge on relevant subjects.   Contact details: Det Dyreetiske Råd Justitsministeriet Slotholmsgade 10, 1216 COPENHAGEN Denmark e-mail: jm@jm.dk  att. Det Dyreetiske Råd    Publications:   1992   Statement on animal experimentation (available in English) 1992   Statement on hunting with bow and arrow 1993   Statement on pig production (available in English) 1994   Statement on the keeping of dangerous animals and animals which are likely to cause fear 1995   Statement on the production of broilers and other poultry for slaughtering 1995   Statement on organic animal production 1996   Statement on animal biotechnology 1997   Statement on ritual slaughter 1997   Statement on pest control 1998   Statement on the keeping of horses 1998   Statement on the use of the “Ovum-Pick-Up”- technique for collection of oocytes from cattle 1998   Statement concerning de-registration of certain drugs for horses 1998   Statement on the breeding of animals that are prone to birth difficulties 1999   Statement on the breeding of dogs and cats  1999   Statement on the ethical aspects of medical and surgical treatment of pets 2000   Statement on tail docking of dogs 2000   Discussion paper on cloning and cloning related techniques 2001   Statement on cloning of animals 2001   Statement on laying hens 2002   Statement on cloning 2003   Statement on fur production 2004   Statement on cats 2005   Statement on ritual slaughter 2006   Statement on hunting with birds of prey 2006   Statement on dairy cows 2006   Statement on humans’ sexual relations with animals 2007   Man or mouse? Report on ethical aspects of chimaera research (available in English) 2008   Statement on companion and hobby animals 2010   Statement on hunting   The publications are available at http://www.justitsministeriet.dk/271.html         Denmark, The Animal Ethics Council Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:28:24 GMT +0100 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-1 Animal welfare plays an increasingly important role in our society: societal views on the use of animals by humans and on the human – animal relationship are changing rapidly within many European countries.   Because of these interest and concerns, various European countries have set up Animal Welfare Councils to provide national governments and others with sound scientific and ethical advice about animal welfare.   In 2006, we founded EuroFAWC: the European Forum for Animal Welfare Councils. EuroFAWC provides a platform for informed debate, for sharing information and views and a network for members of the Animal Welfare Councils throughout Europe (i.e. all countries that belong to the Council of Europe). Several international organisations, such as OIE and the European Commission, have observer status.   For a list of members see: Members of EuroFAWC (3rd button top menu)   Would you like to join us? See: Membership   Would you like to contact us? See: Contact details   Because most Animal Welfare Councils have been established to provide their national governments with expert, independent advice, EuroFAWC is not set up to act on behalf of its members. Instead, we share our mutual experiences, knowledge and findings – for example on pig castration and housing of dairy cattle – through our forum and publish our common position on this website. We also provide a network of like-minded contacts for our members. Home Tue, 25 Jan 2011 10:35:53 GMT +0100 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-60   Denmark, The Animal Ethics Council Mon, 24 Jan 2011 11:51:59 GMT +0100 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-7 Most Animal Welfare Councils have been established to provide their national governments with expert, independent advice. Therefore, EuroFAWC is not set up to act on behalf of its members. Instead, we share our mutual experiences, knowledge and findings through our forum and publish our common position on this website. Statements Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:02:47 GMT +0100 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-24 Country:      UK   Name:         Zoos Forum   Website:        http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/zoos/zoos-forum.htm   Scope:  To encourage the role of zoos in conservation, education and scientific research; to keep under review the operation and implementation of the zoo licensing system in the UK and to advise or make recommendations to Ministers of any legislative or other changes that may be necessary. The Forum can consider any animal-related issue where there is a specific zoo interest and offer advice on animal welfare where no other more suitable body exists through which these views could be more appropriately put.   Structure:      There are 13 members. Working methods:  The Forum can investigate any specific aspects of zoo policy and practice falling within its remit; consider any animal-related issue where there is a specific zoo interest and offer advice on animal welfare where no other more suitable body exists through which these views could be more appropriately put; seek and obtain detailed advice or assistance from other persons or organisations with knowledge or experience appearing to the Forum to be relevant to its work; assess the evolving role of zoos in society; and foster a fuller understanding of that role; communicate freely with outside bodies, the European Commission and the public; and publish its advice independently.     Contact details: Secretariat: Wildlife Species Conservation Division DEFRA, Zone 1/11 Temple Quay House 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6EB, UK  Zoos Forum publications (these are published as chapters in the Zoos Forum Handbook) The ethical review process   http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/zoos/documents/zoo-handbook/1.pdf   There are times when a balance has to be struck between what is best in terms of conservation, education, disease control or other goals and what is best for the interests, particularly the welfare, of individual animals. These decisions may be difficult and the aim of ethical review is to help ensure that all these concerns are taken fully into account. This chapter provides guidance on operating the ethical review process in zoos.   Conservation, education and research http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/zoos/documents/zoo-handbook/2.pdf   This chapter provides advice and guidance to help zoos fulfill their potential and meet their obligations under the EU Zoos Directive for conservation, education and research.      Sustainability initiatives in UK zoos    http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/zoos/documents/zoo-handbook/3.pdf   This chapter attempts to define and illustrate the role of sustainable development as relevant to zoos in the United Kingdom. It explains the concept of sustainable development and its applicability to zoos. It also summarises structures and procedures that can encourage sustainable development, including examples of specific positive measures and good practice from UK zoos.     Animal welfare and its assessment http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/zoos/documents/zoo-handbook/4.pdf   The aim of this chapter is to assist zoos and zoo inspectors evaluate the welfare of animals and in so doing, help promote high standards of animal husbandry in line with the requirements of the EU Zoos Directive.     Diving in zoos and aquariums   http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/zoos/documents/zoo-handbook/5.pdf   The aim of this chapter is to provide zoo inspectors and local authorities with the necessary guidance for good practice relating to diving in aquariums to help both the zoo licensing and inspection process. It also outlines the procedures involved with diving in aquariums that are covered by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive.   Veterinary Services http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/zoos/documents/zoo-handbook/6.pdf   The aim of this chapter is to provide guidance to zoo managers, Local Authorities and zoo inspectors where the minimum standards of veterinary service may lie, and the various options for achieving a far better than minimum level of veterinary care in a licensed zoo. UK, Zoos Forum Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:21:38 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-55 EuroFAWC members and oberservers meet annually, in January. Each member will host this meeting by turns.   No funding is provided by the forum for attendace at its meetings; instead members are responsible for their own travel and accomodation costs incurred. However, the hosting organisation covers the costs of the venue and refreshments at the meeting.   The working language is English.     Recent meetings   Next meeting Meetings Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:13:25 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-13   Membership is confined to those bodies within Europe that are established by national Governments to provide strategic and other advice about animal welfare. Membership of the forum is open to all European countries that belong to the Council of Europe.   If an advisory Council has not been established, then a representative of the Government Department with responsibility for animal welfare is invited to attend as an observer. The Council of Europe, the OIE, the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority and New Zealand are also invited to attend each meeting as observers. Members Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:03:12 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-5   EuroFAWC chairman: L. (Laurens) Hoedemaker, DVM. Council for Animal Affairs, the Netherlands   EuroFAWC vice-chairman: Professor C. (Christopher) Wathes Farm Animal Welfare Council, UK     EuroFAWC secretariat: Mrs. dr. ir. E. (Ester) Peeters Scientific Advisor to the Council for Animal Welfare, Belgium Federal Public Service Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment DG 4 Section Animal Welfare EUROSTATION - Block II - 7th stage Victor Hortaplein 40 bus 10 1060 Brussel- Belgium Ester.Peeters@health.fgov.be Tel. +32 2/524.74.23 Fax +32 2/524.74.48 Contact details Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:02:28 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-4 EuroFAWC members and observers meet annually, in January. Each member will host this meeting by turns.   No funding is provided by the forum for attendance at its meetings; instead members are responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs incurred. However, the hosting organisation covers the costs of the venue and refreshments at the meeting.   The working language is English. Procedures Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:01:55 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-3 Membership is confined to those bodies within Europe that are established by national Governments to provide strategic and other advice about animal welfare. Membership of the forum is open to all European countries that belong to the Council of Europe.   If an advisory Council has not been established, then a representative of the Government Department with responsibility for animal welfare is invited to attend as an observer. The Council of Europe, the OIE, the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority and New Zealand are also invited to attend each meeting as observers. Membership Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:01:01 GMT +0200 http://www.eurofawc.com/article-2 Mission Statement The European Forum for Animal Welfare Councils aims to promote sound scientific and ethical advice about animal welfare. It provides a platform for debate, for sharing information and views and a network for members of the Animal Welfare Councils throughout Europe.     Aims Exchanging views and knowledge To exchange views and knowledge to help in the formulation of advice about animal welfare by national Councils. To exchange views informally and in a non-binding way – which is of particular importance to those there representing Government Departments rather than an independent Council. To hold discussions and raise issues that might be beyond national comfort zones, without members feeling the need to qualify their statements with national interests. To share information about animal welfare priorities and work already carried out.   Exchanging best practices To exchange information on the organisation and structures of Animal Welfare Councils in Europe. To promote best practice for efficiency of Animal Welfare Councils in Europe. To promote the use of Animal Welfare Councils to advise Governments in countries where they were yet to be established. Mission statement & Aims Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:00:26 GMT +0200