1. Animal Welfare Ligislation Flashcards
(14 cards)
What does the German Animal Welfare Act (TierSchG) regulate?
It regulates the different areas of animal welfare, protecting animals for their own sake and reflecting an ethical view of animal protection.
How did the legal status of animals change in Germany in 2002?
The formal equality of animals with objects was rectified, granting animals their own intrinsic value, which must be respected.
How is animal welfare included in Germany’s Basic Law?
It is a national policy objective (Art. 20a Basic Law) with legally binding force to ensure the observance or fulfilment of specific tasks.
What is the aim of the Animal Welfare Act as stated in its preamble?
To protect the life and wellbeing of animals based on human responsibility for animals as fellow creatures.
Under the Animal Welfare Act, when is it permissible to inflict harm on animals?
Only with good cause; no person may inflict pain, suffering, or harm on an animal without good reason.
What is animal wellbeing according to the Animal Welfare Act commentary?
A physical and mental harmony of the animal with itself and the environment, fulfilling basic needs like movement, food, and care.
How do animals typically express pain?
Through species-typical behavior, such as aggressive reactions or evasive movements (acute pain) or favoring affected limbs (chronic pain).
What is “suffering” in the context of animal welfare law?
A psychological uneasiness caused by factors like inadequate housing, poor care, or social isolation, beyond the term “pain.”
What does “harm” refer to in animal welfare?
The impairment of physical and mental integrity, such as ill health, injuries, or abnormal behavior.
What ethical approach does the German Animal Welfare Act emphasize?
Human responsibility for animals, allowing reasonable constraints only with good grounds and after careful consideration.
Why does the Animal Welfare Act permit limits to animal protection?
Because humans need to use and control animals, e.g., pests, within reasonable and justifiable limits.
Why is individual responsibility important in animal welfare?
Responsible behavior and awareness of legal provisions are crucial for protecting animals effectively.
What provisions must be observed when animals are used for scientific or educational purposes?
Regulations regarding husbandry, care, surgical procedures, and treatments must be followed.
How can well-trained personnel contribute to animal welfare?
By recognizing impairment of animal wellbeing in time, sparing animals unnecessary pain, suffering, or harm.
