Current Work Studies

Standards and Controls for Companion Animal* Rescue Establishments and Sanctuaries
The Companion Animal Welfare Council (CAWC) proposes to undertake a study of the need to set standards and controls for companion animal rescue establishments.

Unfortunately, it is a regular occurrence that the press carries reports of animal rescue centres where animal welfare has been poor or has reached levels requiring legal intervention. CAWC believes it is important to investigate a need for a regulatory body to set standards that should be met before a rescue centre is permitted to operate, including the need for such centres to be inspected periodically to continue to be registered.

The requirements will vary considerably between companion animal species, but it is considered that a realistic and effective set of standards is important.

The Companion Animal Welfare Council have issued a Call For Evidence which can be viewed here.

Welfare of Exotics - Standards and Control
There is an increasing trend to use exotic species as companion animals. Often the basic understanding of the health and welfare needs of such animals is poorly understood, and expectations of the pleasure to be derived from them is sometimes unrealistic and often short-lived.

The care and welfare of exotics must start with good advice at the point of acquisition (e.g. pet shops), but continue throughout the ownership of the exotic species.

CAWC will aim to produce standards for exotic animal welfare and the control of such species where the provision of adequate welfare may be difficult.