Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

In Sweden animal protection falls under the responsibilities of the County Administrative Board. And the employees working for the animal protection unit in the County Administrative Board are responsible for making sure that the animal owners show the animals respect and protect them from unnecessary harm. This is done through legislation dictating how the animals are supposed to be treated and cared for. The legislation put in place covers everything from farm animals to animals held within families like dogs and cats, in fact it covers all animals held in captivity by man. If animals suffer and come to harm from the actions of their owner, and it’s considered hopeless that this suffering will end, animal welfare officers from the County Administrative Board may have to step in and remove the animal from the custody of its owner. Afterwards the animal welfare officers will have to decide what to do with the animal, they can transfer the animal to a shelter or someone willing to adopt the animal, they can also sell it or lastly decide to euthanize the animal. Every decision made is done so based on the animal welfare legislation, and the health status of the animal in question, which determines how attractive the animal may be if put up for adoption or transfer. During the time the animal is taken into custody, and a decision is made, many other stakeholders work in unison with the County Administrative Board to make sure everything goes smoothly, these other stakeholders may be transportation companies, farmers, animal shelters, police, and veterinarians. All of them plays different, yet important parts in making sure animals get the protection they need.