Animal Welfare Establishments

Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments

Sefydlwyd 2006 - Established 2006 Contents

Preface 1

Definition and context 2

Part 1: Governance & Management 4 1.1 Governance 4 a) Policies 5 b) Legislation 6 c) Financial Management 7 d) Health and Safety 7

1.2 Staff and Volunteer Management 9 a) Staffing levels 9 b) Training Provisions 9 c) Competence and Qualifications 9

Part 2: Animal Management 11 a) Record Keeping 11 b) Admissions Procedure and Veterinary checks 12 c) Animal Behaviour and Assessment 14 d) Housing and Environment 14 e) Cleaning and hygiene 16 f) Companionship 18 g) Feeding and water 19 h) Supervision 20 i) Grooming 20 j) Exercise 21 k) Quality of Life 21 l) Correct Keeping Levels 22

Mae’r ddogfen yma hefyd ar gael yn Gymraeg. This document is also available in Welsh.

Part 3: Animal Health and Disease 23 a) Animal Disease 23 b) Neutering and breeding 26

Part 4: Rehabilitation and/or Rehoming and/or Release 27 a) Euthanasia 27 b) Rehabilitation 28 c) Rehoming 29 d) Fostering 30 e) Identification and Traceability 31

Part 5: Transport of Animals 32

Appendices 1) Legislation concerning animal health & welfare 34 2) Legislation pertinent to Wildlife Rehabilitation 36 3) Non-animal related legislation 42 4) Additional Sources of information 42 5) Example of a Release Policy 43 6) Example of a Euthanasia Policy 44 7) Example of a Rehoming Policy 45 8) Notifiable diseases 45 9) Codes used within this Code 45

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Preface

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 (“the Act”), Given that the vast majority of animals taken if you own or are responsible for an animal you in for rescue and rehabilitation can already be have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to considered vulnerable, the paramount aim of ensure its welfare needs are met. An Animal any AWE must be high standards of welfare Welfare Establishment (“AWE”) is responsible for the animals in their care. for the animals in its care and as such is also liable for prosecution. Starting a New Charity The Code explains what AWEs need to do to Any successful rescue organisation should meet the standard of care the law requires. aspire to achieving a proper legal structure, An AWE should not cause any unnecessary however it is recognised that in the case of suffering to the animals in its care; this could small organisations that are first setting up, constitute a serious offence under the Act. this may not be achieved immediately. This is AWEs should look to their veterinary surgeon particularly important if donations are involved. (vet) for advice on the health of any animals For those considering starting a new rescue in its care. Specialist advice on welfare can charity that will care for animals, this Code be sought from behaviourists and others listed clearly demonstrates the required obligations in Appendix 4. and responsibilities. Additionally the following points should be considered: For further sources of information, including the a) Is there a need for such a charity? Animal Welfare Act 2006, its regulations What assessment has been done to and codes, and other relevant legislation, ensure there is truly a need? If local see the Appendices at the end of this Code. or national charities already exist, You should be aware that the legislation cited consider volunteering or working with in the Code and its Appendices is correct them. It may be better to develop at the date of issue but may be subject to relationships with other AWEs to ensure subsequent change. their long term success, rather than starting a new organisation. The Code of Practice is intended to encourage those responsible for looking after animals b) Do the nominated Trustees and the in the care of AWEs to adopt the highest staff/volunteers have sufficient standards of husbandry. It outlines the expertise, resources and knowledge framework for delivering exemplary levels to be able to provide full time care for of care that should also be demonstrated. the animals? These should be universally recognised as the c) Can sufficient funds be found to sustain benchmark for all individuals and organisations the charity? charged with the care of animals. This Code also provides an outline of the various administrative aspects of operating an AWE.

1 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments

Definition and context

The definition of an AWE has evolved over time rehabilitation centres, rescue centres, and stray and through various forums and initiatives, animal facilities (local authority or contractor). to address the challenges and issues such The function of these establishments could establishments face. This definition aims to include: taking in unwanted animals, rehoming reflect the function of AWEs and provide an animals, keeping animals for duration umbrella for what can be a diverse sector of their lives, dealing with lost animals, of activity covering many species. For the treatment (on a small or large scale) of sick purposes of this Code therefore, an AWE is or injured animals, taking in retired animals, any establishment which holds itself out to or rehabilitation of animals. It would not be take in and to care (temporarily, permanently, possible to create a definition of AWEs based or both) for vulnerable animals. This could on numbers of vulnerable animals taken in or include establishments known commonly by severe limitations on species, but rather it as: animal homes, sanctuaries, shelters, must be defined by what it does. rehoming centres, rest homes, animal hospitals,

An AWE shall be defined henceforth as:

A person, organisation or establishment who holds themselves out to receive vulnerable animals on a regular basis, whether companion, farmed, wild, protected or other animals, with a view to rehabilitating and either rehoming or releasing (back to the wild), or providing long-term care.

Animal Welfare Act 2006 and rehabilitation environments having a more naturalistic and enriched environment. Section 9 of the Act contains details of the duty of care which requires people responsible for (b) its need for a suitable diet: animals to take reasonable steps to ensure Both food and water are basic needs. that the welfare needs of these animals are The method of food presentation, the frequency met. The Five Welfare Needs are: of feeds and the nutritional balance should be (a) its need for a suitable environment: taken into account. Food should be presented in a manner and frequency commensurate with An environment consistent with species the natural behaviour of the species, as well requirements should be provided. This should as its nutritional requirements, which may vary include shade and shelter from rain, heat and according to season and life-stage. cold as appropriate. Suitable substrates, perches and three-dimensional environments (c) its need to be able to exhibit normal should be provided where appropriate with behaviour patterns: places to hide from people or other animals Animals should be allowed the opportunity to as appropriate. A balance should be struck express most normal behaviours, taking into between medical treatment, hygiene and the account current enrichment and husbandry species’ biological requirements, with initial guidelines, with emphasis on maintaining and care in a hospital-type environment being developing behaviours appropriate to future generally more spartan and free of enrichment, rehoming or release.

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(d) any need it has to be housed with, (e) its need to be protected from pain, or apart from, other animals: suffering, injury and disease: The need to be with the same or other species A complex range of factors will need to be will differ for each animal and this requires considered in order to ensure an animal – expert knowledge to address. For some animals already vulnerable and potentially suffering isolation will be crucial to their rehabilitation – does not suffer further throughout its whereas others may show little or no progress rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming/release. without the company of others. Other factors A comprehensive veterinary policy is essential such as past experiences, age and general for most aspects of this welfare need. health, amongst others, should be carefully considered.

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Part 1: Governance & Management

1.1 Governance include a constitution, charitable status and appointed Trustees. The Charity Commission Sound governance and an accompanying state that Trustees should act in ’Good Faith’ staff/volunteer management structure is which is defined as genuine, honest intention envisaged to be the single most important or motives; trying to do the right thing, in the factor in determining the long term success interests of the charity. Once legal status has and sustainability of an AWE. For this reason been achieved, full accounts, properly audited governance and minimum animal welfare or certified, become a legal requirement and standards are entirely interdependent and such accounts must be filed correctly. cannot be considered separately. The governing body of any AWE should seek to recruit and Trustees and Managers of organisations retain a committed group of trustees who have to which this Code of Practice refers must be the skills, expertise and time to dedicate to aware of their responsibilities. Organisations the organisation. must comply with a raft of legislation ranging from Health and Safety and Employment AWEs are generally ‘not-for-profit’ organisations, legislation through to more specific species small charities, charitable incorporated related legislation such as animal welfare laws organisations or registered charities. For those (see Appendices 1 to 3). It is important to note operating or hoping to operate a charitable that the Animal Welfare Act recognises offences organisation please see by corporate bodies. An AWE would fall into the www.charitycommission.gov.uk and for those definition of a corporate body. Where an offence who do not seek charitable status, guidance on is detected and a prosecution taken forward, governance and all that entails, should be this can apply to an individual and/or any sought from www.wcva.wales. In addition, director, manager, secretary or similar officer information on legal practices and best practice of the corporate body, or any person who has regarding fundraising should be gathered from purported to act in any such capacity who shall www.smallcharities.org.uk and www.institute-of- be liable to be proceeded against and punished fundraising.org.uk. accordingly where guilt is proven in court. Registered charities must have a Many AWEs have governance structures that ‘governing document’; this is the constitution encompass a wider geographical area beyond of the charity and could be a Deed of Trust, Wales, i.e. GB or UK organisations working the Memorandum and Articles of Association across more than one constituent nation. of a company limited by guarantee or the rules In these instances, as animal welfare policy of a membership association. These will have is devolved, any AWE with a presence in Wales to be approved, as appropriate, by the Charity is expected to comply with this Code in addition Commission for England and Wales. Advice on to the animal welfare (and other relevant) the appropriate form of governing document legislation which may differ in Wales to that can be found at www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to- of other UK nations. write-your-charitys-governing-document. AWEs should demonstrate transparency in their Irrespective of whether the AWE is a charity operations and decision-making processes. or not, it should have a proper legal structure, Clear policies should be developed and agreed which might be a company limited by before being made readily available at the guarantee, an unincorporated association or premises and/or on the relevant website. a Trust. A formal legal structure should also

4 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments a) Policies 5. Information and Communications Technology – this includes policies on the AWEs are required to have readily accessible use of the internet, email, social media policies in the following areas: and software licensing etc. Governance & staff/volunteer management: 6. Staffing levels – AWEs should have a 1. A “Governing Document” detailing: designated and responsible person available a) its charitable purposes (‘objects’) at all times whenever animals are on site. b) what it can do to carry out its purposes They should be trained and have access (‘powers’), such as borrowing money to animal first aid materials. c) who runs it/who is accountable 7. HR and general employment policies. (‘trustees’, ‘director’, ‘committee members’ etc) and who can be 8. Safeguarding – covering volunteers, a member staff and interactions with the public. d) how meetings will be held and trustees appointed 9. Whistleblowing. e) any rules about paying trustees, Animal Health & Welfare: investments and holding land 1. Entry Criteria – this should be outlined in f) whether the trustees can the AWE’s governing documents. Entry criteria change the governing document, should cover how the AWE applies its governing including its charitable objects principles in a practical way on a daily basis. (‘amendment provisions’) Entry criteria should be linked to the capacity g) how to close the charity/organisation of the AWE to meet each intake’s specific and (‘dissolution provisions’). general needs whether animals are under their care on a temporary or permanent basis. 2. Record keeping & auditing of such Criteria should take account of the AWE’s records – this includes all records of financials, resources (finances, people and facilities) medicines, staff, volunteers, supporters and and the changing needs of the animal donors, etc. For additional records concerning e.g. during quarantine or high dependency the animals at the AWE see relevant section veterinary cases. below. 2. Veterinary Policy & contracts – a 3. Equal Opportunities – the animal veterinary practice should be appointed for welfare organisation must adhere to Equal the establishment, with the contact details Opportunities requirements and provide the and a 24 hour emergency contact number of statutory level of staff and volunteer care. the appointed practice prominently displayed. All members of staff and volunteers should be treated fairly, regardless of gender, age, 3. Quality of life – see Part 2 (k). racial origin, religious persuasion, sexual orientation or disability. 4. Euthanasia (see Appendix 6 for an example in wildlife establishments). 4. Health & Safety – this should include provisions for staff, volunteers and visitors. A risk management policy and programme, including a register and a record of regular assessments, are also essential.

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5. Ownership – It is vital that organisations for via their AWE. AWE’s must comply fully are clear on what legal basis they admit animals with legislation which covers the way in into their care (e.g. transfer of ownership, which animals are treated. This is subject boarding on behalf of another body or authority; to appropriate national and local legislation. or temporary custody on behalf of an owner). As good practice, animal welfare must always This should always be made very explicit to be of overriding importance in the activities the person transferring ownership prior to the of any organisation. exchange. AWEs are asked to note the Invasive Alien 6. Rehoming – The organisation should be Species (Enforcement and Permitting) committed to a high standard of responsible Order 2019 came into force on 1/12/19. Rehoming practices (see Appendix 7 It implements requirements contained in for example). the EU Invasive Alien Species Regulation (1143/2014), including setting out the 7. Release (see Appendix 5 for example). penalties for breach of the restrictions in the Regulation, defences and other enforcement- 8. Purchase – rescuing animals by purchase related provisions. Further information on the is strongly discouraged, as this encourages Order is contained in Appendix 2. Please bear and rewards those who may be responsible this information in mind when reading this for neglect. Code of Practice 9. Resources – it is unacceptable for an organisation to take in more than the resources Licensing will allow for the proper care and attention of There may be circumstances when the AWE the animals. is subject to certain forms of licensing whether those activities of the AWE are its primary 10. Importing animals – this is also strongly purpose or not. This includes but is not discouraged. Where a legitimate importation limited to: is deemed necessary this must also include a recognition for the strict legislation governing 1. Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) the importation of animals. Regulations 2014. 2. Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963. 11. Public access/display – 3. Riding Establishments Act 1964. [Mobile Animal Exhibits1]. 4. Zoos Licensing Act 1981. 5. The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Animal b) Legislation Exhibits) (Wales) Regulations 2020 For a list of related welfare legislation (pending). that all AWEs must comply with, please 6. The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and see Appendices 1-3. This list should not Permitting) Order 2019. be considered exhaustive and it is the responsibility of the managers/trustees of an AWE to also be familiar with the developments and requirements of new legislation concerning animal health & welfare for all species cared

1 In December 2017 the Welsh Government announced their intention to regulate Mobile Animal Exhibits. Once passed into law this section will need updating to include the new regulations that would need to be complied with.

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In addition to legislation regarding the d) Health & Safety keeping and care of animals, contained AWEs must comply with current Health & Safety within Appendix 1-3, there are other laws and legislation. Advice and guidance on Health regulations which AWEs must be mindful of. and Safety is available from the local authority Many of these are signposted in this Code, Environmental Health department or from the but it is the responsibility of the AWE to be Health and Safety Executive (HSE). aware of all relevant legislation. AWEs can be run either entirely by volunteers c) Financial Management or by employees or a combination of both. Health & Safety legislation, in general, Accounts applies to employees and those affected Bank accounts should be in the name of the by an organisation’s activities, which includes organisation and accounts maintained and filed volunteers but also includes visitors to the AWE where applicable. as well as members of the public. It is therefore important to have a written Health and Safety Trustees/Managers should ensure the financial policy and appropriate procedures and records of the AWE are audited on a regular guidelines in place to reduce the risk of causing basis. harm to the health and safety of others.

Fundraising Staff, volunteers and visitors to its premises must be made aware of the organisation’s AWE’s should fundraise ethically and health and safety policy. It is the responsibility responsibly, in line with rules set out by the of all parties to ensure a safe environment by Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator. adhering to health and safety procedures and All AWEs (with or without charitable status) safe working practices. In addition to ensuring should comply with the Code of Fundraising all work equipment is suitable, fit for purpose 2 Practice . and well-maintained, organisations must have in place safe systems of work and ensure that Planning these are followed by all. All AWEs should have a business strategy Consideration must be given to employing that has the finances and projected measures designed to protect staff, income/expenditure for the organisation clearly volunteers and members of the public from detailed for the short to medium term (long term injury and disease by animals in the care of the plans are also desirable). All such plans should organisation (see zoonotic diseases section include contingency details in the event the of this Code). Injury can be caused by the organisation ceases to operate. Appropriate physical environment or the animals kept by funds to meet the costs of closure, including the AWE – either as a result of an accident or plans for both the ongoing care of the animals because the animal attacks. If an animal known and redundancy packages for staff, should be to be aggressive injures a member of staff, integral to such plans. a volunteer or a member of the public, then that organisation will run a serious risk of having breached Health and Safety legislation and/or could be liable in any civil action.

2 www.fundraisingregulator.org.uk/code-of-fundraising-practice/code-of-fundraising-practice-v1-4-310717-docx/

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Managing Risk Also consider developing partnerships with other AWEs who may be able to assist with Organisations should have a written housing animals in emergency situations. Risk Management policy, which should include relevant and regular Risk Assessments, some of A qualified first aider should be appointed and which have a statutory requirement. Records of first aid kit must be available. such assessments should be kept in a register. In addition to responsibilities indicated in the There should be evidence of other appropriate Health and Safety policy, consideration should health and safety implementation for staff be given to the consequences arising from, in relation to diseases, for example ongoing for example, theft, vandalism and disease, evidence of TB vaccination, tetanus vaccination in addition to matters such as loss of income and rabies vaccination where appropriate. or premises. Individual medical practitioner advice should be sought as necessary. Emergency Action & Contingency Planning Insurance Appropriate steps must be taken for the The organisation should be fully insured for protection of staff, volunteers and animals employee and public liability and should have in the case of emergencies such as fire or trustee liability insurance. Adequate insurance flood. Where practicable a responsible person cover should be maintained in relation to shall at all times be on the premises or in close the AWE’s activities and against any liability proximity for the purpose of giving warning in respect of any loss, damage or injury to and taking other necessary steps. or caused by, or attributable to, the animals or staff. All relevant certificates of insurance An emergency evacuation plan for staff, should be displayed publicly as evidence volunteers and the animals must be prepared of such cover. based on advice and approved by a Fire Prevention Officer. Advice from a Fire Prevention Particular care needs to be taken to reduce Officer must also be sought in relation to the risk of injury from animals in animal the appropriate location and operation of welfare organisations. The question of liability electrical and heating installations. Firefighting in relation to injuries caused by animals to equipment must be provided in accordance employees, volunteers or members of the public with advice given by the Fire Safety Officer can be complex and organisations must have and all electrical installations and appliances adequate public liability insurance in place must be maintained in a safe condition. and, if they employ staff, employer’s liability Written procedures should be displayed and insurance (this must be extended to cover must be disseminated as appropriate so that volunteers if necessary). all staff, volunteers and visitors are aware of the action to be taken. Evacuation procedures Liabilities may arise through the pursuance must be practised regularly and records kept of legal action by a third party or an employee, of these practices. whose claim may be made against the Centre as a corporate body (regardless of its legal A contingency for housing a large number of status), against the proprietors in person or, animals if the premises is unusable [or requires if a charity, against the Trustees. It is therefore evacuation at short notice] should be prepared. important that specialist advice is sought from Consider the costs of a) such temporary a qualified insurance professional to ensure housing and b) the funds needed to rebuild. the most appropriate cover is obtained.

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1.2 Staff and Volunteer b) Training Provisions Management A written training policy should be provided All references to ‘staff’ below include and all training should be recorded. volunteers. AWEs should endeavour to have the correct Assistance provided by volunteers can prove training programmes so as to enable its to be both valuable and effective, but the staff to be kept up to date with all aspects employment of full-time, paid staff is likely of animal care, hygiene, welfare, training and to provide the necessary supervision and behaviour issues. All staff should be trained continuity of care. As is the case with paid in the organisations’ policies and standard members of staff, a formal written agreement operating procedures and there should always between the organisation and volunteers will be supervision and induction training for new set out clearly the responsibilities of both staff; particularly those not experienced in parties, whilst providing a sound basis for animal handling. resolving misunderstandings or disputes that Systematic training of staff should be may arise. demonstrated to have been carried out, and there should be a schedule for refresher a) Staffing levels training, particularly in health and safety and The total number of animal care staff employed, manual handling; each staff member should and the number on duty at any given time have a personal development plan for their during working hours at an AWE shall be such ongoing development. All staff should be that sufficient attention can be given to each suitably competent and appropriately trained of the animals in occupancy including allowing to recognise welfare and signs of illness, for the provisions of all aspects of their care injury and disease, in the animals under their and any relevant legislation. care. Depending on the function of the AWE topics could include: animal handling; ecology; Sufficient numbers of competent staff should animal husbandry; animal welfare; biosecurity be provided at all times to ensure proper, and hygiene; administration of medication; regular and timely attention to all animals held. care of neonates; health and safety and When calculating staff requirements and rotas first aid; action in emergencies; emergency it is necessary to make allowance for absences euthanasia; basic sampling for health due to training, holiday, sickness, maternity and monitoring and diagnosis; release criteria unforeseen circumstances. It is also important and techniques; educational techniques. that the organisation maintains sufficient funds to meet its legal responsibilities as an employer. c) Competence and Qualifications The cost of paid staff is a contractual Persons having responsibility for the safety responsibility, and is likely to be the and care of animals should demonstrate organisation’s single greatest expense. competence in animal care, training and Supporting volunteers also requires resourcing. management either by recognised professional It is therefore imperative that sufficient funds qualifications and/or extensive practical are always available to meet all commitments experience. AWEs involved in investigations as an employer. arising from allegations of animal cruelty or neglect by third parties must be competent in understanding the legal framework within which welfare concerns can be investigated,

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together with the correct procedures for A list should be maintained of all staff and evidence gathering and recording. This includes volunteers authorised to work with the animals carrying out any work involving the provision of (including any species-specific limitations), advice, or removal of animals from situations together with lines of responsibility, levels of of cruelty or neglect and subsequently caring expertise, training, qualifications and the for them; it applies in all cases, whether duties they are both trained and legally able operating as enforcers of animal welfare to carry out. legislation or alongside enforcement bodies such as Local Authorities and Police.

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Part 2: Animal Management a) Record Keeping Records should be updated daily (or more frequently as required) by designated members A record should be kept containing a of staff. description of all animals received into the establishment, noting the date of arrival and Animal records should be retained for a departure, and the name and address of the minimum period of three years and kept new owner (and/or the name and address available for inspection at all times by any of the existing owner where it is returned or authorised person. Records of veterinary the new AWE the animal is transferred to). treatment and non-veterinary assessments Records of veterinary treatment should also should also be kept. Provision should be made be kept. Records should be kept available for for long-term archiving in a secure format. inspection at all times by an authorised person. All records kept need to be complaint with the The following information should be recorded General Data Protection Regulations. for each animal: • Individual animal identification. For many The keeping of accurate records is essential species there is a legal requirement for to ensure traceability of animals, ownership, each animal to be identified using specific health status, medicine usage, disease, methods. This may include microchip/ birth and death of all animals. Record keeping leg ring/ear tag or passport numbers/ is compulsory for Schedule 4 species under freeze brand or tattoo details/or other the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (WCA), identifiable markings, in addition to a but is also considered essential for all animals unique AWE database reference assigned to provide a complete audit trail and especially to that animal. to provide proof of provenance for wildlife (for later release for example) and ownership3. • Description of animal, to include: As such records should include documented – species proof of current ownership, including transfer – breed if known of ownership for example to the Animal Welfare – age or approximate age if unknown Establishment. – colour, markings and any distinguishing Records should be kept and maintained features for each individual animal4. Where animals – male or female are kept in groups, each animal should be – neutered or unneutered. individually identifiable. These records should • Current location of animal within the AWE preferably be kept on a computerised database (e.g. building and kennel number). (and appropriately backed up), for ease and • Date of admission to AWE. speed of reference, or alternatively in a paper or card filing system. • Release or rehoming date.

3 There is also a legal requirement to register some birds of prey when in care – Section 7 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, as it pertains to Schedule 4 birds. 4 There may be rare circumstances where the AWE may have to keep group records for instance with a flock of birds. Evidence of justification of group records should be provided

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• Case history including point of origin • Record of the animal’s full behavioural (where and how the animal was obtained), assessment and ongoing behavioural previous ownership, any relevant details observations. of acquisition. For animals covered by the • Record of training, rehabilitation and provisions of the Invasive Alien Species behavioural modification plan. (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019 • The date of and reason for euthanasia or and which are considered to be companion death, including record of any post mortem animals this should also include evidence findings. that the animal was acquired by an owner before the species was included on the • Records that may be required as part of EU Invasive Alien Species list. any legal obligations for animals that may be subject to any formal investigation. • Any known previous or current health Certain species may be subject to issues or veterinary history. additional legislation, including recording • Reason for admission to AWE. requirements, for example wild animals • Verified details of previous owner/person and food production animals. bringing in for admission. • Documented proof of any temporary b) Admissions Procedure and or permanent transfer of ownership or Veterinary Checks responsibility in the case of wildlife. • On, or prior to arrival at the AWE, • Details of veterinary surgeon/practice a demonstrably competent (where possible assigned to animal (if not the AWE’s suitably qualified) member of staff should nominated practice). perform an assessment of suitability of • Weight and Body Condition Score at the animal for entering the AWE. admission and at regular intervals as • The suitability assessment should include appropriate: reviewing the animal’s history, current and – Specific needs to include: Nutrition: future needs and the eventual intended record of type/quantity/frequency outcomes for the animal, and using this of feed required; information to decide whether the animal – Any specific dietary needs; is suited to the type of AWE, and whether – Any specific environmental, the AWE is the best place to fulfil the companionship, isolation, regular welfare needs of that animal. medication needs. • New admissions should be kept apart from • Health: other animals until assessed as – Record of any abnormal clinical disease-free as stated within the AWE’s observations or parameters, for example agreed health plan (see biosecurity section faecal consistency, drinking behaviour, in Part 3). presence of itching or coughing • The suitability assessment should include behaviour; a physical examination observing the – Details of any veterinary examinations health, welfare and behaviour of the or interventions; animal, for signs of injury or disease, and distressed or concerning behaviour. – Record of veterinary treatments The following checks should be performed: including medicines administered; – Record of any diagnostic test results.

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– Observation of behaviour and body procedures to cover the discovery of non language, initially from a distance, and UK microchips. Best practice dictates then by handling the animal if it is safe that if a microchip or other form of or appropriate to do so. identification is found and the animal – Assessment of signs of good health or is not registered to the person who disease. For example, does the animal brought in the animal, then attempts have any signs of external wounds or must be made to contact the registered injuries/skin disease/nasal discharge/ keeper. In certain circumstances there abnormal breathing, panting, coughing is a legal procedure to follow when or sneezing/vomiting or diarrhoea/ a form of permanent identification is abnormal appearance of ears or eyes/ found and this must be followed by lameness or abnormal limbs or feet? the AWE, cooperating with the relevant – If any signs of disease or distress are authorities. The AWE must be familiar apparent, the animal should be made with the reporting requirements. comfortable in a quiet environment, • If the animal is deemed suitable for entry and assessed by a veterinary surgeon to the AWE, then it should have a unique as soon as possible. database number assigned to it and – Measure the weight and body condition all the information in the section above score of the animal and record them. (Record Keeping) should be recorded on the AWE database. – When animals are first encountered or received they should be thoroughly • If the animal is not suitable for entry to checked for a form of identification the AWE, a decision should be made by linked to that species. In some species the appropriate persons as to whether there is a legal requirement for a it should: specific form of identification to be – be euthanised by a vet on welfare present. The AWE must be familiar with grounds; these requirements and should have – be transported to a veterinary clinic the knowledge and possess (or be for examination and treatment; able to gain access to) the equipment – be moved to a more appropriate AWE needed to check each animal for or into a home fostering arrangement. relevant identification. In many species • Appropriate biosecurity measures should in the UK, this form of identification will be taken by all those dealing with the new be a microchip implanted into a specific admission, to prevent cross-contamination location on the animal. Scanning for a with staff and other animals. microchip should be performed using an ISO-compliant scanner. Scanning • Carry out sampling and tests for health several times increases the chance of and disease status in accordance with finding a microchip. Where a microchip a quarantine procedure established in is found then reasonable attempts must conjunction with the AWE’s nominated be made to trace the registered owner veterinary surgeon. or keeper of any lost animal. In the case • Take a photographic record of the animal of some species, in light of increased at the point of entry. international animal travel, this should • New animals entering the AWE should be include reference to databases for assessed to establish their needs within animals originating from outside the the AWE. UK. The AWE’s policy should include

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• New animals entering the AWE should public. Behavioural assessment begins on receive an examination by a veterinary admission to avoid mal-imprinted animals surgeon as soon as possible after arrival. entering into a rehabilitation programme. • New animals entering the AWE should The assessment of neonatal and dependent have a specific member of staff made juveniles during the rearing process in captivity responsible for overseeing their is ongoing up until the decision to release but introduction and care, to ensure continuity may also be required post release to assess of care. the rehabilitation process. c) Animal behaviour and d) Housing and Environment assessment Accommodation, whether indoors in a purpose-made enclosure or outdoors in a built Domestic Animals enclosure or field, should take account of the Animals should be assessed on admission, requirements of the species and be suitable and on an ongoing basis, by an appropriately to meet the physiological and psychological qualified or suitably competent individual. needs of the animal. Best practice is laid This ensures robust evaluation and out in various species specific Codes of implementation of behavioural programmes Practice and the AWE must ensure that their to enhance opportunities for rehoming and housing and environment arrangements follow to ensure animals are correctly supported these to meet all the animals’ needs at all during their residence at the establishment. times. Accommodation should, at all times, A number of factors should be considered have sufficient space as to allow for natural when assessing domestic animals including: behaviours. the temperament of the animal; its age; its health; how it reacts towards people and Accommodation other animals; its response to sounds and Accommodation requirements are different smells within the environment; and its reaction for each species, but in each case must be to physical contact/grooming. maintained in a clean, fit for purpose and safe condition at all times. Each accommodation Wild Animals facility must be cleaned (and where The behaviour of a wild-bred animal needs to be appropriate) disinfected with an appropriate commensurate for that species, including the animal safe disinfectant’5 between animals, ability to recognise its own species e.g. mate and checked for cleanliness and safety before selection and the ability to recognise natural the introduction of each new animal to that food resources without dependency on accommodation. supplementary feeding post release. It must exhibit natural fear instinct/stress response Bedding/Flooring such as predator awareness (which includes A suitable, clean bedding or flooring material people). Mal-imprinted animals i.e. animals must be provided, which is adequate for that have lost the fear of people and/or cannot the animal to be free from discomfort and recognise their own species, or habituated encourages natural behaviour such as lying animals, preclude successful rehabilitation down, hiding, or resting away from light. and are a danger to themselves and the

5 Defra list disinfectants for farm animals.

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All flooring/bedding materials should either be but the following needs to be considered in disposable (e.g. straw, wood, paper) or machine setting up and running an AWE: washable on a hot wash (e.g. dog blankets) or disinfectable (e.g. rubber matting and concrete) 1. Buildings to allow good hygiene and biosecurity practice. • Areas for animal housing/isolation/feed storage and preparation/veterinary care/ Temperature grooming and washing/staff room and All accommodation must be maintained eating/washing and toilet facilities/ within the correct temperature range for the public-animal introduction area/reception. housed species. This may require the use • Electricity/water/sewerage/heating of heating and/or fans. Animals must be system/ventilation or air conditioning. able to move away from sources of potential • Materials, durability, disinfection, animal thermal discomfort or injury e.g. heat sources. safety. For temperature-sensitive species, temperature • Security, alarm systems (fire and security), in the housing or area where the animal is kept panic button, escape-proofing. should be closely monitored and a record of this maintained. 2. Indoor enclosures (including containers) • Types of stables/field shelters/kennels/ Lighting cages/vivariums multi-animal areas. All accommodation must receive appropriate • Design and layout of enclosure. natural lighting during daylight hours, except for species which have differing specific lighting • Natural and artificial lighting. requirements for which the specific needs must • Window type/material/safety/security. be provided for. All accommodation should have • Door type/materials/safety/security. an electricity supply and adequate artificial • Temperature control (for both heating lighting available for interacting with the housed and cooling). animals outside of daylight hours. • Dimensions/size of enclosure. • Wall/ceiling materials and surfaces. Ventilation and Humidity • Floor materials. The individual ventilation and humidity • Internal divisions, platforms or perches requirements for each species must be met within enclosure. by the accommodation. • Drainage and cleaning. Enclosures • Water provision. • Feeding provision. Each enclosure or housing unit must be fit for the intended species and purpose • Bedding materials. e.g. quarantine or general living; ensuring • Environmental enrichment. that each individual animal has it needs met • Visual and audible proximity or separation and where these are restricted, e.g. normal to others of same species. behaviours or diet during quarantine or vet • Proximity or separation from staff. treatment; are only restricted on the advice • Separation from other species if of a veterinary surgeon and for the minimum appropriate. period necessary to ensure the health and welfare of the individual. Specific details are in • Noise control. the species Code of Practices where these exist

15 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments

3. Outdoor enclosures Although maintaining a hygienic environment • Types indoor-outdoor runs/separate is important, consideration to the comfort and exercise areas/paddocks/aviaries/pools. mental welfare of the animals should also be made. Cleaning and husbandry practices need • Dimensions and internal divisions. to ensure that the accommodation meets the • Gates/doors type, number, position, animals’ needs and take into consideration the materials, safety, security. psychological distress that may be caused by, • Provision of shelter. for example, the daily removal of familiar smells • Fencing type, materials and height. and bedding through the use of large amounts • Roofing material and height if required. of water and animal-safe disinfectant – diluted and used correctly per species. Animals can be • Floor surface materials. adversely affected by strong chemical smells, • Drainage and cleaning. or a constantly damp and wet environment. • Water provision. The use of a disinfectant-led spot cleaning • Feeding provision. approach satisfies the demands of both welfare • Environmental enrichment visual, and hygiene once the animal has gone through audible and olfactory proximity or the quarantine period. If animals are suspected separation to others of same species. of carrying an infectious disease, more thorough cleaning and disinfection is necessary. • Proximity or separation from staff. • Separation from other species as All bedding areas should be kept clean and appropriate. dry and stored securely, and animals should • Consideration of biosecurity in relation have access to a dry area whilst their housing to access by local wildlife. is being cleaned. Animals must be removed during high pressure or steam cleaning or e) Cleaning and hygiene other cleaning methods which are likely to be frightening or stressful. All units, corridors, common areas, kitchens etc. should be kept clean and free from Each unit must be thoroughly cleaned, accumulations of dirt and dust and should be disinfected (where appropriate) and dried kept in a condition which will reduce the risk at a change of occupancy. This should be of disease spread. adequate to protect the new occupant from the disease or parasites of its predecessor. Each occupied unit should be cleaned daily If certain diseases have been present, unless the individual or species requirements e.g. parvovirus in dogs, further actions and dictate another care programme e.g. wildlife. precautions may be needed. All bedding, water and feeding utensils must be changed For domestic species, moveable items should and disinfected or disposed of, where relevant). be removed for cleaning at least weekly and All fittings should also be thoroughly cleansed for the accommodation of each new animal. (and disinfected) at that time. All excreta and soiled material should be removed from all areas used by the animals AWE’s must comply with relevant waste at least daily and more often if necessary, handling legislation. Facilities must be provided as should food and water containers. for the appropriate storage, treatment and disposal of all classifications of waste and

16 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments

particularly ‘controlled wastes’ generated Cleanliness by the AWE. Controlled wastes such as The accommodation and ancillary hazardous waste arising from the treatment establishment, kitchen, corridors, runs etc. and handling of animals with infectious disease should be maintained in a state of cleanliness require particular care. Guidance on waste conducive to maintenance of disease control legislation and regulations can be obtained and animal comfort. All excreta and soiled from relevant regulatory bodies such as HSE, material should be removed at least once daily Defra, Department of Health and Natural or as necessary for the species, from all living Resources Wales. and exercise compartments, and disposed Collection, handling, treatment and disposal of in an appropriate manner. The floors of of faecal matter and wash-down water the living compartment should be clean and contaminated by faecal matter require careful dry. Care must be taken to protect animals management. Organisations must recognise from disinfectant poisoning associated with the duty of care they owe to all persons cleaning routines. and outside agencies such as private water Pooling of liquids must not be permitted in companies and waste companies involved accommodation for domesticated species in the safe management of all types of waste in order to prevent infection. generated at AWE’s.

Measures should be taken to minimise the Feeding Equipment and Storage risks of wild animals contaminating or taking Feeding utensils should be satisfactorily foodstuffs, bedding or other materials, cleaned or disposed of after each feed. A food within the establishment. These measures preparation area should be provided and be can include the use of sealed storage bins for separate from staff facilities. It should be kept food stuffs, secure disposal of uneaten food clean and managed at all times to ensure and ensuring external walls and doors are that there are no food sources available for constructed to ensure animals like rodents wild animals. Refrigeration facilities6 should cannot gain access. be provided where fresh foods are used. All supplies of food should be kept in sealed Care must be taken with cleaning routines containers that cannot be accessed by to protect animals from disinfectant poisoning wild animals. or injury, e.g. caustic burns to the skin. Phenolic disinfectants are toxic to some In the case of aquatic species there should species. be regular monitoring of water quality parameters, including ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, Any chemicals used must be handled, and PH levels. stored and disposed of strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. A list of disinfectants approved for use in Wales can be found here: www.disinfectants. defra.gov.uk/DisinfectantsExternal/Default. aspx?Module=ApprovalsList_SI.

6 This includes freezers, because, for instance, some species require fish which are not always in season, and also day-old frozen chicks (and other foodstuffs) need to be kept frozen for raptors.

17 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments f) Companionship will also allow the animals to get used to human handling where this is necessary and desired Some animals are social species and have for that species and individual. an inherent desire to be with their own kind. They need, and value the company of their own species (which could potentially require transfer Contact with other Animals to another facility that has another of the same New owners should be advised if an animal species). Consideration must therefore be given cannot or should not live around other species as to whether it is appropriate to house them (or others of its own species) and no animals with or apart from other animals on a temporary should be placed to live with other animals if or long term basis. it is not ready or able to do so safely.

Enriching7 the living environment where animals As a basic principle AWEs should not exist to are housed is very important to ensure that breed animals. Unneutered post pubescent their mental and behavioural needs are met. animals of different sexes should not be housed This is particularly important where the animals or mixed together unless it is a highly unusual are likely to spend lengthy periods in the AWE situation, i.e. that the AWE is also a licensed zoo or fostering environment. Longer term residents and active in a breeding programme necessary will require consequently more exercise for the protection of a species or breed/type. opportunities. Wildlife Environment and Animals housed in social isolation must be Companionship provided with alternative means of enrichment. Enrichment must be meaningful to the species • Accommodation should take account of and individual and the AWE must be mindful the natural habitat of the species and seek that some forms of enrichment for one species to meet the physiological and psychological might be distressing to another. needs of the animal. • As there are significant gaps in knowledge Contact with People for many species regarding their husbandry and care it is not considered good practice Animals should generally not be forced to to mix species in wildlife rehabilitation interact with people, and must have the facility centres. to avoid people should they wish, i.e. a hiding place or a high vertical resting place, or no • If a centre is not able to provide contact with people for wildlife. However accommodation which fulfils those needs socialisation with people is essential for for a particular animal, then they should some species and as such time should be set not accept such species, or provide only aside for appropriate contact with staff and the most immediate accommodation and volunteers. arrange transport to a more suitable facility as soon as possible. Individual animals should be groomed when • The temperature, ventilation, lighting and necessary and steps taken to ensure animals noise levels of hospital rooms, pens and are free of parasitic infestation and their enclosures should be suitable for the coats are free of mats. Regular grooming, comfort and well-being of the particular if introduced gradually and in a positive way, species of animal at all times. In particular:

7 It has been noted by Animal Welfare Network Wales (‘AWNW’) members that enrichment may need further explanation and also embedding in other sections of the Code. This is work the AWNW is willing to do at a later point if that is helpful.

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– Consideration should be given to the g) Feeding and water special needs of pregnant and All animals must be supplied with an adequate newly-born animals. and nutritionally balanced diet suitable for – Newly-arrived animals should be allowed the species concerned and correct for their to become fully acclimatised into their health, activity and stage in their life cycle. new environment. Most animals will be The quantity, frequency, delivery and type housed separately for initial monitoring of food should be determined by what is and treatment and many cases, appropriate to the individual’s behavioural particularly territorial adult animals, will and nutritional needs. Clean, potable (fit for be housed individually for the whole of human consumption) water must be available their time in captivity. In most cases, for animals at all times and changed regularly movement from initial isolation areas, at least once daily. into hospitalisation pens and eventually to a larger enclosure may be a gradual Some species and some individuals will have process. very specific and often diverse dietary and – Tanks for aquatic species8 need to be feeding needs and the AWE should ensure adequately oxygenated according to the that they are knowledgeable and competent number kept in each pool, and should at delivering the right diet and feeding regime be heated or cooled according to the for those species and individuals; and that they needs of the species. Environmental are able to recognise the success or failure parameters (e.g. salinity, water quality, of their feeding programme. Advice should be chlorine and/or ozone content) should sought from a vet or other suitably qualified be suitable for the species. person on how to manage animals with – Indoor housing should protect against non-standard dietary needs. extremes of sunlight, heat, draughts and The following advice is mainly applicable to cold, and provide appropriate humidity. domestic and farm species but the underlying – Outside housing should offer protection principles should be translated for any wildlife against extremes of weather. or exotic species brought into the care of – Natural day/night cycles of light should an AWE. be maintained, with an opportunity to avoid light as necessary. Natural Where animals are being fed together, unfiltered, rather than electric based, care should be taken to ensure that all animals light should be used wherever possible, are receiving sufficient food and that no animal to provide appropriate UV spectrum and is receiving more or less food than it requires. intensity for normal development and In communal animal areas there should behaviour. Artificial lighting should be be at least one feeding and water bowl for of the appropriate intensity, spectral each animal except perhaps for certain farm distribution and flicker fusion frequency animal species which may be fed/watered via e.g. high frequency (HF) light fittings. communal feeders or drinkers such as troughs.

Eating vessels, which should be capable of being easily cleansed and disinfected, should be cleansed normally after each

8 Ornamental fish also have filtration requirements. Chlorine is toxic to fish and must be removed and tanks should be ‘matured’ before fish are added.

19 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments

meal and uneaten food disposed of carefully. • Feeding methods should be safe for Drinking vessels should be cleaned at least animals and staff, and species appropriate. once a day. Disposable eating dishes may • Food and drink, and feeding and drinking be used and disposed of as appropriate. receptacles when used, should be placed Feeding utensils should be satisfactorily in positions which minimise the risks of cleaned or disposed of after each feed. contamination from soiling by the animals, wild birds, rodents or other pests. A food preparation area should be provided and be separate from staff and volunteer facilities and animal accommodation. It should h) Supervision be kept clean at all times. All bulk supplies of Whilst animals are at the establishment food should be kept in animal proof containers there should, whenever practical, be a and refrigeration facilities should be provided competent person in close proximity to the where fresh foods are used. It is important premises to check on their health, safety and to note that it is illegal to feed kitchen scraps welfare, taking care not to disturb them when to farm animals unless from a completely sleeping. A suitable interval is taken to be not vegan kitchen. more than 4 hours between 8am and 6pm. Animals requiring veterinary supervision should Wildlife be visited more frequently.

• Neonates and orphans can be challenging Whilst animals are at the establishment to rear due to seasonal increased there should always be a competent person numbers and high frequency of feeding. available to make decisions on their welfare, Each centre should set capacity limits for based on the evidence provided. Animals must admissions of neonates of each species. be visited at suitable intervals for their health, A wide range of dietary ingredients may be safety and welfare. Supervision arrangements needed to cover the species anticipated. should be made and documented for each Written charts to ensure that feeds are species, type or where appropriate, groups or not missed are helpful. individuals. • Care should be taken to limit human contact to a minimum at feeding times Special arrangements must also be made to to prevent malprinting. attend to sick animals during the day and night • The natural behaviour of the animals, as necessitated by their individual veterinary particularly social aspects, should be care plan. considered when offering food and drink. Feeding and drinking receptacles, when i) Grooming used, should be of appropriate design and Grooming for certain domestic species placed so as to be accessible and available (e.g. dog, cat and horses) is part of a routine to every animal kept in an enclosure. In the care programme that also forms part of the later stages of rehabilitation feeding should examination of the health of the animal, be as ‘natural’ as possible (e.g. scatter specifically the skin and hair coat/covering. feeding) to encourage and develop normal Grooming also gives an opportunity for the foraging behaviour. provision of positive human contact. • Enclosure design should be such that human contact does not become associated with feeding.

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Where appropriate for the species, all animals k) Quality of Life should be groomed when necessary and steps Before acceptance, careful consideration taken to ensure animals are free of parasitic should be given to the future welfare and quality infestation and their coats are free of of life of the animal, and the organisation’s mats/tangles/thorns etc. ability to provide it. Some species may need to be sheared at Wild animals, in most instances, should only certain periods during the year. Arrangements be held and treated in hospitals and rescue should be made to ensure this is carried out centres where it is believed that there is a in a timely manner by a competent individual. good chance that they will be successfully For any animals with access to the outdoors, rehabilitated back into the wild. Where an care should be taken to ensure their coats animal is expected not to survive, or to remain do not become caked with debris. permanently disabled or otherwise unfit for life in the wild, then the AWE should consider that it is very difficult to meet that animal’s needs j) Exercise and euthanasia needs to be considered as All animals must have the opportunity to the most likely treatment option. exercise on a daily basis to replicate as far as is practical, the natural exercise and behaviours For wild animals that have been displaced for that species. The duration of the exercise from their natural habitat, the impacts of period should be long enough and of the right short term captivity, particularly in relation to type to be adequate for the maintenance of stress-associated behaviours and physiological and opportunity to display normal behaviour response can have a severe negative effect for that species. on the health of the animal in question. Therefore, in relation to wildlife rehabilitation In addition to taking account of the species where little is known about the long term effects and type of animal, the AWE should also of permanent captivity on already disabled arrange exercise according to the age, and diseased individuals, there should be no fitness and state of health of each animal. alternative course other than euthanasia. During these periods it is advisable to monitor the animals for signs of lameness, ill health or For domesticated animals, the AWE should abnormal behaviour. assess whether it can care for the animal’s needs and whether the correct provisions are Exercise should be supervised if necessary. in place. Euthanasia should be considered on Staff should be encouraged to interact a case by case basis, taking into account the with the domestic animals as appropriate. individual animal. In most cases, except for Because exercise is often done in communal adult feral cats, this decision should only be areas, the AWE should be mindful and take made after rehabilitation has been explored reasonable precautions to minimise the risk and a full and thorough examination carried of disease spread. out to determine the facts. Euthanasia should only be carried out by or under the direction The opportunity for exercise should be provided of a veterinary surgeon using an approved for wild animals during rehabilitation prior to humane method and, where appropriate, release (see Part 4). using pre-euthanasia sedation.

21 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments l) Correct Keeping Levels Specific factors for each species are available in the relevant Codes of Practice but should AWEs will, as a matter of their own (internal) include: policy, establish optimum and maximum animal numbers and density (stocking) levels based on • Appropriate spatial requirements of the specific needs of the types of animals they individuals of each species. intend to take into their care. Animal numbers • Level of care required by each individual. and density should be calculated by taking • Need for animals of different species or into account the AWE’s resources (finances, sex to be kept apart and out of sight/ competent carers, facilities and accommodation smell from others. {environment}) to ensure the AWE can meet its • Risk of disease. ongoing obligation to all animals in its care.

AWEs are encouraged to refuse to accept animals that would exceed their capacity to properly care on an on-going basis for that number of animals. In such circumstances the organisation should be prepared to work with other bodies to find alternative arrangements. It must be borne in mind that at all times there remains a legal duty of care that places responsibilities upon owners and keepers to ensure a proper level of care on behalf of all animals in their charge. This should be considered when determining whether to accept animals in excess of the normal capacity.

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Part 3: Animal Health and Disease a) Animal Disease Veterinary treatment facilities should be provided that are appropriate for each species Veterinary Care kept by the AWE and should be consistent with All diagnosis and treatment of animals must the welfare needs of the specific animals and be carried out in accordance with the Veterinary appropriate to the range of animals the AWE Surgeons Act 1966. Each organisation should plans to admit. Veterinary care facilities should nominate one or more veterinary practices or be developed and maintained in conjunction veterinary surgeons who can advise on the with the nominated veterinary provider/s. health of and provide veterinary services to the range and type of animals entering and Animal Health Planning resident within the organisation. The Royal A written health plan should be agreed with College of Veterinary Surgeons maintains nominated veterinary provider/s for the AWE. a list of veterinary surgeons with specialist This should ensure for the animals kept at qualifications to assist AWEs needing veterinary the AWE that the five welfare needs are met services for e.g. exotic or wild species. and should include details of environment, behaviour, diet, parasite control, vaccination, Where an AWE uses a combination of local and other routine procedures. This should be veterinary cover and specialist veterinary supported by accurate and up-to-date records services, adequate advance arrangements of all relevant interventions. should be made to allow timely contact and discussion between all parties whenever a) Daily Inspection necessary, and particularly for emergency Methodical and thorough daily cases, to ensure adequate and continuous inspections must be carried out to veterinary cover for the animals in the care ensure each animal’s health and of the AWE. welfare. These will include checking the environment in which they are being The AWE should establish, document and kept. The animals should be checked implement a procedure for obtaining daily for signs of ill-health, disease or ‘out-of-hours’ facilities and services for animals changes in their physical appearance requiring veterinary care, this should include or behaviour. full contact details for 24 hour veterinary help. b) Euthanasia and Death For practical reasons the veterinary practice AWEs have a legal duty of care to should be located within a reasonable travelling ensure that animals under their care do time of the AWE. not suffer unnecessarily. Euthanasia is All veterinary products must be stored, an essential treatment option where the used and disposed of as required by the condition and behaviour of the animal, product datasheet and Control of Substances supported by veterinary advice, indicate Hazardous to Health (COSHH) legislation, that it is no longer possible to ensure or relevant local legislation. that an animal does not suffer.

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c) Disease Prevention Animals accepted with an unknown This will include steps to prevent vaccination history, for example, and control the spread of infectious stray dogs, must be kept separate, disease and parasites amongst the away from any vaccinated boarding animals, staff, volunteers and visitors. animals. Particular care should be given to the v) Parasite management: precautions taken to minimise the risk Internal and external parasites should of outbreak of disease in all communal be actively managed in accordance with animal areas. the AWE’s veterinary provider. Emerging i) Biosecurity: resistance to available products is a New admissions and animals showing serious threat to animal health, and signs of disease should be placed in programmes should place emphasis a designated isolation facility whilst on appropriate husbandry measures awaiting assessment, and a tailored and control methods that are evidence monitoring and testing programme based. As with the overall health plan, should be carried out before their a parasite control programme should being housed with the other animals be agreed with veterinary advisors. if appropriate. vi) Post Mortem Examinations and ii) Notifiable diseases: Carcass Disposal: Both wild and domestic species Having to deal with animals that are known reservoirs of important require euthanasia or occasionally diseases, some of which are notifiable die unexpectedly is a sad reality of (see Appendix 8). These species must operating an AWE. Dead animals should be screened for the presence of the be handled in a way that minimises relevant disease and all individuals the risk of transmission of infection. testing positive for the disease in Animals that die at the centre or question must follow the protocols en-route to it, particularly if this is in question for this disease. unexpected, should be examined iii) Translocation: post-mortem in accordance with Translocation (before and after rescue) veterinary advice. Where appropriate, poses an inherent risk for both exotic samples for diagnosis or health and endemic diseases. monitoring should be taken for laboratory examination. Adequate An AWE should ensure their practices facilities should be available either minimise the risk, and adhere to at the centre or within a reasonable relevant protocols and codes of distance for the post-mortem practice. examination of all species held. iv) Vaccination: Normally animal carcasses should Animals should be vaccinated, as be quickly and safely removed. appropriate for the species, to offer Organisations that look after animals protection against infectious diseases. should be familiar with local carcass A programme tailored to the species removal and disposal services. and types of animals cared for by The disposal of carcasses is subject the AWE should be developed and to legal restrictions. implemented upon veterinary advice.

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Biosecurity mitigated as far as possible e.g. by limiting the period of isolation that is necessary • Where any animal shows any sign of a for an effective bio security protection, potentially contagious disease, veterinary and offering enrichment within the advice must be sought immediately and environment. suitable isolation facilities made available if the veterinary advice includes keeping • Biosecurity measures should achieve the diseased animal/s separate from the effective separation from other animals other animals. not in the same isolation programme (all resident animals at the AWE and • Adequate isolation facilities for animals any animals on a completely separate with infectious diseases must be provided quarantine programme). that are separate from those for new admissions. This may be on site or at • Testing for specific diseases should be another location, such as a local veterinary considered and carried out on veterinary practice. advice or where there is a specific threat of a relevant disease being a risk to • Staff and volunteers should be trained on the AWE. hygiene practices including barrier nursing, washing and disinfecting hands between • The proximity of animals to other species animals, the use of protective clothing should be considered, e.g. avoid housing and other suitable measures to prevent waterfowl next to poultry due to the risk cross-infection. When performing routine of avian influenza. checks on animals, staff should work with the youngest animals first, and interact Zoonotic Diseases with healthy animals before sick animals A zoonotic disease is one that can be to avoid the spread of disease. transmitted between humans and animals. • The quarantine programme and facilities Examples include bacterial, viral, fungal and should be designed in conjunction with protozoan infections, as well as many other the AWE’s veterinary provider. It should be parasitic diseases. The prevention of zoonotic effective at detecting and preventing the disease transmission is achieved through spread of the main infectious diseases good hygiene and biosecurity practices, in the that pose a threat to animals and people same way as we prevent animal to animal as a result of working with the species of transmission of diseases. animals that the AWE becomes involved in. The accommodation arrangements and The common routes of exposure to zoonotic hygiene facilities and procedures should diseases include: be adequate to control the specific range • Skin contact. of diseases that the quarantine programme • Penetration injuries e.g. from bites, is intending to prevent. The AWE should scratches, needlestick injuries. ensure the facilities, care and interventions • Air borne transmission. during quarantine are compatible with meeting all the needs of each animal as • Exposure to disease vectors e.g. bats, far as it is possible to do so; and must not ticks or mosquitoes. cause any animal to suffer unnecessarily. • Orofaecal route. By its very nature, quarantine can fail to meet some of the needs of each animal and these compromises should be made on direct veterinary advice only and

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Sources of infection include contact with raw • High risk situations such as cleaning of sick meat, fomites, and live or dead animals or animal accommodation, taking samples or material from them such as faeces, urine, performing of Post Mortem examinations, vomit or pus. should be identified and managed accordingly. AWEs should have a biosecurity plan in place, which includes measures to prevent the transmission of zoonotic diseases and b) Neutering and breeding should include: As a principle, AWEs should not exist to breed • Staff should receive training on which animals. It is recognised that pregnant animals zoonotic diseases they may risk exposure may come into an AWE and a decision should to and how to minimise risk. be made on an individual case by case basis in conjunction with a vet as to whether to • Particular risks should be identified allow a pregnancy to continue. Unneutered e.g. pregnant or immunosuppressed animals of breeding age should not be kept people may be at higher risk from with unneutered animals of the opposite sex. exposure. In accordance with specific veterinary advice • Zoonotic disease risks should be assessed on an individual basis, the AWE should have for each species and for individual animals. animals neutered, as appropriate for the • High risk animals should be placed in species. isolation and only handled by designated staff members, using barrier nursing Where it has not been possible to neuter an methods. This may include animals animal before it has been rehomed, a system undertaking their quarantine period, for ensuring the animal is neutered should be sick animals under veterinary care, or other put in place. This could be an arrangement for in-contact animals. the animal to be returned to the organisation • Staff should seek medical advice for any for the procedure to be undertaken or for an illness, bite, or skin lesion. arrangement made with a veterinary surgeon. If a voucher is issued for the procedure to be • Eating or drinking should not be allowed undertaken by a local veterinary surgeon, it is in animal handling and accommodation important that a robust follow-up system is areas. in place. • Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves, overalls and masks, The organisation should aim to promote and should be provided and used. encourage neutering, and advice on the • Hand washing is the most important benefits and reasons for neutering should measure for exposure prevention. be given to the new owners/keepers. Training should be provided, and facilities should be available throughout the AWE. Contaminated surfaces and equipment should be disinfected after use with an approved disinfectant. • Kennel waste, clinical waste and carcasses should be disposed of promptly in the correct manner.

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Part 4: Rehabilitation and/or Rehoming and/or Release a) Euthanasia e) The animal is a non-native species, as defined by Section 14 of the WCA, All AWEs should have a written policy on including being listed on schedule 9, euthanasia which is explained to and followed or is covered by the provisions of the by all members within the organisation. Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement Euthanasia can be a response to and Permitting) Order 2019 and a circumstances where health and/or welfare licence cannot be obtained for its are irreversibly and severely compromised and release; when it is not possible to meet an animal’s f) Factors other than animal health needs. However, no decision to euthanise (e.g. provision of sufficient numbers an animal should be taken without serious of suitable release sites, mal-imprinting, consideration and only carried out if it is judged likely duration of recovery/rehabilitation, to be absolutely necessary. legal requirements, other behavioural concerns) may also be grounds for The key factors in deciding whether euthanasia euthanasia, assuming all practical should be considered are as follows: options are explored. a) To prevent pain or suffering (including mental and emotional); Euthanasia of animals should only be carried out by or under the direction of a veterinary b) If an animal poses an unacceptable surgeon using an approved humane method risk to people, itself or to other animals; and, where appropriate, using pre-euthanasia c) If quality of life for the animal is sedation. All legislation that protects wild compromised to an unacceptable animals includes a defence that allows anyone degree, with no realistic prospect to kill a protected animal ‘if he shows that of improvement; the (animal) had been so seriously disabled Additionally for wildlife, the main reasons for otherwise than by his own unlawful act euthanasia are as follows: that there was no reasonable chance of d) There is a lack of reasonable it recovering’. Consequently any individual, expectation that the animal will have regardless of qualifications, is able to kill a an equivalent realistic chance of protected wild animal to relieve immediate survival upon release to that of its wild suffering where no ‘veterinary diagnosis’ counterparts. This decision may be is strictly necessary. A Wild Animal Welfare made at admission, or at any stage Establishment (WAWE) should have written up to the point of release. Where it veterinary protocols covering such eventualities is deemed necessary, euthanasia which should be discussed and agreed with should be carried out as early in the the consulting veterinary surgeon. Only trained rehabilitation process as possible, and competent individuals should carry out ideally within the first 24-48 hours, euthanasia. or as soon as it becomes evident that a casualty or orphan is unsuitable for release;

27 Code of Best Practice for Animal Welfare Establishments b) Rehabilitation emulate their natural environment to allow for a level of fitness and stamina comparable Any training or behaviour modification of to wild counterparts. The use of closed animals including the rehabilitation of wildlife circuit television should be used to aid the should only be carried out by appropriately assessment of animals in rehabilitation trained and competent staff or volunteers. enclosures while minimising human contact. These staff and volunteers should have a good understanding of the ethology, and for wildlife, the ecology of the species they are Release of Wildlife working with. They need to understand learning Prior to release, animals should be considered theory and its practical application, and have fully fit and able to fend for themselves in the knowledge of other influences of behaviour wild. Fitness assessment should consider such as health, nutrition, cognition. Additionally clinical, behavioural, and physical assessments. for wildlife species, staff and volunteers should Written procedures for assessment prior to have knowledge of developmental psychology release should be produced and updated with respect to the needs of neonatal and according to new published literature and dependant juveniles. This is also important scientific evidence. Release should not be for domestic species as without appropriate carried out if animals are deemed significantly and adequate socialisation and habituation less likely to thrive in the wild than a member during the critical periods, animals are at of the same species or are unlikely to enter risk of developing abnormal behaviour. into a breeding population due to physical or Aversive training techniques i.e. those which psychological impairment. Written protocols inhibit unwanted behaviour through the use detailing the assessment and decision-making of an unpleasant stimulus should not be process should be developed by the centre, undertaken under any circumstances. Staff and particularly with regard to conditions which volunteers should only work within their limits may preclude release being identified early and knowledge. on in care, and euthanasia carried out as early as possible. Each organisation should provide an individual responsible for the evaluation Release should be carried out as soon as is and implementation of behavioural and practical following the animal being deemed rehabilitation programmes to support the fit for release, depending on a range of other behavioural needs of each species and factors, including suitable release sites, enhance the opportunity for adoption/ current weather conditions, seasonal effects rehabilitation and release of species. on location (e.g. hibernation, migration), but not be unduly delayed. The aim of wildlife The species taken in by wildlife AWEs will rehabilitation is to release the animal back into depend heavily on the rehabilitation facilities its original environment, or another suitable available. Rehabilitation enclosures vary greatly area. Release into the original area is ideal, in size and design to cater for anything from as the animal is familiar with it, may hold a large marine mammal to a small passerine. territory, or the habitat supports a population After an initial period of indoor assessment, of that species etc. If animals are to be care or treatment, all rehabilitation will take translocated to new areas there are risks to place in outdoor enclosures to allow for diurnal the existing host population of animals of this or nocturnal behaviour, and provide exposure and other species, due to a) novel diseases to natural weather conditions to allow for being introduced, b) displacement of resident acclimation. Rehabilitation enclosures will be animals, c) increased competition for resources appropriately designed for each species to such as food and nesting habitat etc. all of

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which need to be addressed. The potential the local environment and is unable to take ramifications of an unplanned release could appropriate photographs. It is also good be disastrous for the local ecosystem and for practice to obtain written references for species of conservation and of agricultural prospective new owners from another AWE or concern. Therefore the translocation of wildlife veterinary practice demonstrating previous is strongly discouraged. However, if there is no experience of keeping animals. The prospective record of the origin of the animal, appropriate new owners should also be offered the selection and surveying of potential release opportunity to interact with the animal, and both sites should be carried out. Ideally this should the AWE and the potential rehomer able to involve staff members and local ecologists and decline the match at that stage for any reason. conservation managers and wildlife workers with local knowledge, and with the involvement Animals should not normally be given to a and agreement of the landowner. new owner or keeper without that new owner or keeper making a financial contribution to Under Section 14 of the WCA, wildlife centres the organisation, as research suggests that must not deliberately release or permit to even a relatively nominal fee has the useful escape into the wild any non-native species consequence of making the rehomer assess (and some native species), other than under whether they are serious about rehoming. licence from the appropriate authority. Similar The size of the financial contribution needs restrictions apply regarding release and escape to be sufficient to deter the “impulse buyer”. to species covered by the Invasive Alien Species Caring for an animal is a long term financial (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019. commitment and the organisation would be correct to have concern where a prospective c) Rehoming new owner states that they are unable to make a financial contribution. The organisation should be committed to a strict and responsible rehoming All prospective owners should be given written policy for appropriate animals and only information on how to care for that species to appropriate homes. and expected costs involved when they have indicated that they wish to offer a home to an AWEs should obtain all relevant information animal. This information should include advice to ensure that the potential new owner has on an appropriate diet for the animal which adequate facilities and their circumstances fit includes; hygiene, toileting, health and parasite with caring for the individual they have applied control, sleeping arrangements, exercise, to rehome. It is good practice to interview the grooming, socialisation with people and other prospective new keeper and complete a animals, how to identify signs of stress or re-homing application form. This should include illness, and the benefits and risks of neutering a request for information about previous certain domestic species. There should also experience of animal ownership, the lifestyle of be clear advice on how to introduce the animal the family, and the facilities which would be on into the new environment. The prospective offer at the new home. Proof of address should new owner should be given specific advice always be obtained. Visits to the prospective and relevant details about their particular new home are not always necessary but they new pet and its future care, both behavioural may be required if the animal has specific and veterinary. Any previous or ongoing health needs, and are advisable if the rehomer has issues should always be disclosed to the doubts over suitable boundary fencing or prospective owner.

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The new animal should be vaccinated and responsible for that animal under section 3 (1). treated for parasites, where advised by a If the casualty is subsequently presented to veterinary surgeon. For many companion a Wild Animal Welfare Establishment (WAWE) animals, unless against veterinary advice, or veterinary surgery it is important to ensure it is best practice to neuter the pet prior to a transfer of responsibility from the finder to rehoming. Where relevant, animals should the wildlife AWE or veterinary practice. be correctly identified and registered on an appropriate database. All animals should be Permanent Identification fully examined before departure, if not by a All animals held by the organisation should be veterinary surgeon then by a suitably skilled given permanent identification in accordance and competent person. The health certificate, with legislation; records should be held and if given, is complementary rather than an updated by the organisation. alternative, to the veterinary examination. A vaccination record should be given to the new owner. d) Fostering A number of rehoming organisations use Any previous or ongoing health and/or “foster” homes to care for animals on a behavioural issues should always be disclosed temporary basis until a permanent new home to any new owners. It should be made clear can be found. This can be in addition to to the new owner that they are welcome to traditional kennel and cattery units or can be contact the organisation if they need advice the only way the organisation arranges to home or information on any issue with their new pet. and care for the animals. These foster homes The organisation should contact the new owner are normally provided by volunteers where within a few weeks of the re-homing to check rescue animals are cared for in the volunteers’ that there are no problems or difficulties. own homes or in small animal housing units. The organisation should offer support to the Home fostering can be an acceptable way new owner should any difficulties arise and to care for rescue or unwanted animals, be prepared to take the animal back if the but care needs to be taken to ensure that the rehoming is unsuccessful. If the rehoming standard of care provided in the foster home centre has no vacancies then priority should is satisfactory. It is therefore important that be given to that animal on any waiting list. each home which is used to provide foster care Information about rehoming a companion is visited, assessed and approved by a suitably animal which is of a species covered by knowledgeable member of the organisation’s the provisions of the Invasive Alien Species staff or volunteers before it is used for (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019 boarding animals. Any assessment should can be found in Appendix 2. investigate the capabilities of the individuals, the appropriateness of the premises and the accommodation provided. Additionally, “Ownership of wildlife casualties” fosterers should also be adequately trained, Wildlife is not owned in the traditional meaning including any training arising out of a risk of the word. However if an individual picks up assessment. An assessment should be made, an injured wildlife casualty it may be legally and agreement reached, with the fosterer on considered to be protected under section 2 the maximum number of animals to be boarded (b) and (c) of the Act and the individual will be at any one time.

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Equine AWEs that utilise a system of loan Wildlife agreements for semi-permanent borrowing Post-release monitoring of wildlife is a vital situations should refer to the National Equine part of the rehabilitation process. Whilst it Welfare Council (NEWC) code of practice. can be expensive and time consuming, www.newc.co.uk/law/equine-code-of-practice/. basic monitoring is important to ensure the welfare of animals rehabilitated is not e) Identification and Traceability compromised post release. Passive tagging Before any non-wildlife species is rehomed and recording of all released animals should it should be permanently identified in a way ideally be carried out (e.g. a bird ringing appropriate to its species and in accordance scheme, registered with the British Trust for with the law. The implantation of any chip Ornithology and carried out by an appropriately should be completed by a suitably qualified trained ringer, and microchip Radio Frequency person in accordance with any applicable Identification (RFID) implants in mammals). regulation. AWEs should possess (or have Other methods should be used where access to) the relevant equipment (usually an appropriate (e.g. ear tags, tattoos, radio tags), ISO-compliant scanner) to check each animal. although a licence is required for some species Where an existing chip is located reasonable from Natural Resources Wales and possibly attempts should be made to trace the the Home Office. Any form of ringing, tagging registered owner or keeper. In light of increasing or micro-chipping should not compromise the international travel, this should include behaviour or the welfare of the animal being reference to databases for animals originating monitored. Rehabilitators and their veterinary outside of the UK. surgeons should seek appropriate advice prior to embarking on such methods of post-release monitoring and refer to up to date literature.

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Part 5: Transport of Animals

The EU Regulation on welfare of animals • All animals should be deemed fit for during transport applies to the transport of transportation prior to being transported. all live vertebrate animals for the purposes Sick, injured or lame animals may only be of economic activity (i.e. a business or trade) transported for the purpose of seeking and is implemented in Wales by The Welfare veterinary treatment. of Animals (Transport) (Wales) Order 2007. • Vehicles should be suitable for Some AWEs may be required to obtain vehicle transportation of the animals in question, authorisation or training and certificates ensuring the safety of animals and human of competence under the relevant Orders. passengers in transit as well as ensuring Local enquiries should therefore be made suitable restraint and comfort. as to the AWE’s responsibilities under the • The interior of vehicles and trailers must Order. There are specific provisions for the be kept in a clean condition with strict transportation of some livestock species, attention to disease control. including the requirement for movement licenses. Licences may be required to • Vehicles and trailers should be maintained transport animals covered by the provisions to high standards and regularly serviced. of the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement • Animals must be transported suitably and and Permitting) Order 2019 unless they appropriately for the individual species, are being transported for the purposes of including spatial requirements. Containers rehoming as a companion animal. AWEs should should provide for a means of inspection check that they comply with these provisions during the journey and provide suitable before transport. ventilation, humidity and appropriate bedding. The animal should be able to All animals transported between or into EU stand and, depending on species, turn and Member States for the purpose of rehoming, lie down, although adjustments may need including the Republic of Ireland and those to be made for injured animals. Trailers transiting Northern Ireland, are regarded as should have non-slip flooring and ramps a “commercial movement” and must comply suitable to the species being transported. with the requirements of the Balai Directive • Containers holding animals should be (92/65/EEC). labelled with information on species, departure point, destination and All AWEs which take animals on a journey, contact details, in case of an emergency whatever the length, should always apply good (e.g. accident). This is especially important transport practice and follow the requirements if transporting potentially difficult animals whether authorisation is required under the in containers where the animal cannot be Orders or not. seen from outside. • The principles apply to any vehicle, • Animals should not be transported in sight, or livestock trailer, used for the smell or sound of a predator. transportation of animals, and include vehicles owned/leased by the AWE, • Journey times should be kept as short professional animal courier vehicles and as possible. personal vehicles owned by staff members or volunteers if authorised by the AWE for transportation use.

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• Animals should be fed and watered at • Animals should be kept away from direct suitable intervals according to species contact with persons other than the staff and duration of journey. For dogs who member, volunteer or competent persons have been house-trained, opportunities acting on their behalf, unless the handler for toileting should be provided. is satisfied that the animal is not likely, • Animals should not be transported during when under control, to suffer distress or periods of extreme weather if the vehicle or cause injury or to transmit or contract trailer is not fitted with the means to control disease. The handler should be aware that the internal temperature. the animal’s behaviour may become less • Animals should not be left unattended in predictable when away from their usual vehicles or trailers. environment and take appropriate caution. • Facilities suitable for catching, carrying/ • If the journey involves the transfer of lifting, crating and transportation of all animals between different vehicles or the types of animals kept within the AWE trailers, then the designated handover should be readily available. This should location should be safe, secure and include suitable equipment for the capture appropriate for the species. of casualty animals as well as their • Wild animals should only be passed transportation within and outside of the on to responsible persons who have AWE or other premises. the appropriate facilities, resources • Catching and transportation techniques and expertise to ensure the welfare of should take into account the animal’s the animals; these requirements will temperament and escape behaviour be species specific. Where necessary, in order to minimise injury, damage the appropriate licences for the keeping and distress. Allowing the escape, and management of the species should even accidental, of certain animals be held. Such persons may include (e.g.: invasive alien species) is an offence. those carrying out the final stages of AWEs should be able to demonstrate they rehabilitation and release. took all reasonable steps and exercised • There should be contingency plans in all due diligence to avoid committing place that would come into effect in the offence. such circumstances as the journey • Any animal in transit on behalf of the AWE becomes prolonged by significant delays. should only be handled by an appropriately For example, if the vehicle suffered a trained staff member or volunteer, or a mechanical breakdown or was involved competent person(s) acting on their in a road traffic accident. behalf. Adequate provision should be made for both the animals and the public’s safety and well-being. The AWE’s Health and Safety policy should be observed at all times.

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Appendix 1: Legislation concerning animal health & welfare

All legislation was correct at the time of • Code of recommendations for the Welfare publication. of Livestock: Laying Hens 2002. • Animal Welfare Act 2006. • Code of recommendations for the Welfare • Animal Welfare Act 2006 (Commencement of Livestock: Pigs 2004. No. 2 and Saving and Transitional • Commission Regulation 2015/262 laying Provisions) (Wales) Order 2007. down the rules as regards the methods for • Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) the identification or equines. Regulations 2014. • Conservation of Habitats and Species • Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963. Regulations 2017. • Animal Health Act 1981 (Particularly • Conservation of Seals Act 1970. Section 13). • Control of Trade in Endangered Species • Animal Health Act 1981. (Enforcement) Regulations 1997 (COTES). • Animals Act 1971. • Convention on International Trade in • Animals (Cruel Poisons) Act 1962. Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. • Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. • Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the • Breeding of Dogs Act 1973. protection of animals during transport and • Breeding and Sale of Dogs (Welfare) related operations. Act 1999. • Dangerous Dogs Act 1989. • Cinematograph Films (Animals) Act 1937. • Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. • Charities Act 2011. • Dangerous Dogs Compensation and • Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Exemption Schemes Order 1991. Act 2005 (Part 6). • Dangerous Wild Animals Act, 1976. • Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats • Deer Act, 1991. (2019). • Destructive Imported Animals Act 1932. • Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs (2018). • Dogs Act 1871. • Code of Practice for the Welfare of Equines • Dogs Act 1906. (2018). • Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996. • Code of Practice for the Welfare of Game • Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953. Birds Reared for Sporting Purposes 2010 • EC Council Regulation 1/2005 on the (into force 2011, currently under review). Protection of Animals during transport. • Code of Practice for the Welfare of • Environment Act 1995. Livestock: Cattle 2010. • Environmental Protection Act 1990 • Code of Practice for the Welfare of (Sections 149-151). Livestock: Sheep 2010. • Environmental Protection Dogs • Code of Practice for the Welfare of Rabbits (Fouling of Land) Regulations 1996. (2009, currently under review).

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• Environmental Protection (Stray Dogs) • The Grey Squirrels (Prohibition of Regulations 1992. Importation and Keeping) Order 1937. • EU Regulation (1143/2014) on invasive • The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement alien (non-native) species/EU Invasive and Permitting) Order 2019. Alien Species Regulation/Regulation • The Hazardous Waste (England and Wales) (EU) No. 1143/2014. Regulations (HWR), 2005. • Guard Dogs Act 1975 (Section 1). • The Mutilations (Permitted Procedures) • Local Government Act 1988 (Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2010. (Sections 37-39). • The Veterinary Medicines Regulations, • Medicines Act 1968. 2013. • Microchipping of Dogs (Wales) • The Welfare of Animals at Markets Regulations 2015. Order 1990. • Performing Animals (Regulations) Act • The Welfare of Animals at Markets 1925. (Amendment) Order 1993. • Performing Animals Rules 1925 (will be • The Welfare of Animals at the Time of repealed after implementation of The Killing (Wales) Regulations 2014. Animal Welfare (Licensing of Animal • The Welfare of Animals at the Time of Exhibits) (Wales) Regulations 2020). Killing (Consequential Amendments) • Performing Animals Rules 1968 (will be (Wales) Regulations 2014. repealed after implementation of The • The Welfare of Animals (Transport) (Wales) Animal Welfare (Licensing of Animal Order 2007. Exhibits) (Wales) Regulations 2020). • The Welfare of Horses at Markets (and • Pet Animals Act 1951 (Licensing of Other Places of Sale) Order 1990. pet shops). • The Weeds Act 1959. • Protection of Animals (Anaesthetics) • Veterinary Cascade (Veterinary Medicines Acts 1954 & 1964. Directorate). • Protection of Badgers Act, 1992. • Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (Schedule 3 • Riding Establishments Act 1964. Amendment) Order 2002. • Sale of Goods Act 1979 • Veterinary Surgery (Blood Sampling) (Re-homing for a fee). Order 1983. • Serious Organised Crime and Police • Welfare of Farmed Animals (Wales) Act 2005. Regulations 2007. • The Animal By-Products (Enforcement) • Wild Mammals Protection Act, 1996. (Wales) Regulations 2014. • Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Part 1). • The Animal Welfare (Electronic Collars) • Zoo Licensing Act, 1981. (Wales) Regulations 2010. • The Farriers (Registration) Act 2017.

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Appendix 2: Legislation pertinent to Wildlife Rehabilitation

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (b) the killing of any wild bird if he shows (“the WCA”) that the bird had been so seriously disabled otherwise than by his unlawful This is the primary piece of legislation in act that there was no reasonable England and Wales for protecting wildlife. chance of its recovering. All birds and a variety of other plant and animal species are protected under the WCA. Wildlife and Countryside Act, Part 1, The WCA also includes sections relating to Sites Section 10: of Special Scientific Interest, National Parks (3) Notwithstanding anything in section 9, and countryside access and rights of way. a person shall not be guilty of an offence The WCA has been amended on a number of by reason of – occasions, most notably by the Countryside (a) the taking of any such animal if he and Rights of Way Act (2000), Natural shows that the animal had been Environments and Rural Communities Act disabled otherwise than by his unlawful (2006) and the Conservation of Habitats and act and was taken solely for the Species Regulations (2017). However, not all purpose of tending it and releasing these pieces of legislation will be discussed it when no longer disabled; here. This legislation makes it an offence to intentionally take, kill or injure a protected (b) the killing of any such animal if he wild animal, or to intentionally, or recklessly, shows that the animal had been so disturb such an animal in its place of shelter, seriously disabled otherwise than by or to damage, destroy or obstruct access his unlawful act that there was no to its place of shelter. It is also an offence reasonable chance of its recovering; to be in possession of a protected animal, These defences allow anybody to pick up and live or dead. However, the WCA also includes treat a protected wild animal for the purposes various defences. Some are discussed below of tending and releasing it, or, to euthanise it under Schedules, but the important ones, as to prevent further suffering. Similar defences they relate to wildlife rehabilitation is Part 1, can be found in the Protection of Badgers Section 4 (2) a and b for birds and Part 1, Act (1992); Deer Act (1991); Conservation Section 10, (3) a, b and c for other animals, of Seals Act (1970) and the Conservation as listed on Schedule 5 of the Act. of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 Wildlife and Countryside Act, Part 1, (“Habitat Regs”). Section 4: Another important section for rehabilitators to (2) Notwithstanding anything in the provisions be aware of is Section 14, which prohibits the of section 1 or any order made under section 3, release of certain animals into the wild. a person shall not be guilty of an offence by reason of – Wildlife and Countryside Act, Part 1, (a) the taking of any wild bird if he shows Section 14. that the bird had been disabled Introduction of new species etc. otherwise than by his unlawful act (1) Subject to the provisions of this Part, if any and was taken solely for the purpose person releases or allows to escape into the of tending it and releasing it when wild any animal which – no longer disabled;

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(a) is of a kind which is not ordinarily Invasive Alien Species Regulation (e.g. grey resident in and is not a regular visitor squirrel, muntjac deer, Egyptian goose) for the to Great Britain in a wild state; or purposes of rehabilitation. (b) is included in Part I, Part IA or IB of Schedule 9, a hybrid of any animal Licences come with specified conditions; of that kind, he shall be guilty of an any breach of these conditions is an offence, offence. so if the AWE should obtain a licence for an activity, it should ensure that all the conditions Schedules attached to it are complied with. The WCA contains a number of Schedules, relating to particular sections of the WCA. General Licences The following are of direct interest to the General Licences allow certain activities to be rehabilitator. undertaken that would otherwise be unlawful • Schedule 4 lists species of birds that must and rehabilitation is one example. They cover be registered and ringed if kept in captivity a variety of activities that are considered to be – this includes rehabilitation. There are low risk and where the likelihood is that any General Licences that allow certain people application for a licence would be granted. to keep these birds for a certain period of This therefore reduces the bureaucratic time, e.g. a veterinary surgeon may keep workload. No application is required for a such a bird for six weeks, before he or she General Licence; they can just be downloaded is required to register it. from the appropriate website. General Licences • Schedule 5 lists the species of animals, also come with conditions which must be strictly other than birds, that are protected by the adhered to. They are reissued every year, WCA e.g. all bats, otter and red squirrel etc. and are subject to revision, it is recommend • Schedule 9 lists animals that are thought that the AWE checks the Natural Resources to be living in the UK, but whose release Wales species licensing webpages to see if would be an offence under Section 14, a licence has been updated, before the AWE unless the AWE has a licence to do so*. undertakes any activity covered by such a licence. www.naturalresources.wales/permits- * The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and and-permissions/species-licensing/?lang=en. Permitting) Order 2019 amends Schedule 9 of the WCA to omit the animal species also listed on Examples of General Licenses for the the EU Invasive Alien Species list. It is an offence, rehabilitator issued by Natural Resources under the 2019 Order to release these species in to Wales are: the environment unless the AWE has obtained licence to do so. • General Licence 007 – Licence to keep wild birds of species listed on schedule 4 Licences for rehabilitation. • General Licence 009 – Licence to release Licences may be issued under Section 16 wild-bred schedule 9 birds*. of the WCA for a variety of purposes including scientific, ringing or marking of a wild bird or * The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019 conserving flora and fauna. Previously it has amends Schedule 9 of the WCA to omit the animal species also listed on the EU Invasive Alien Species list. It is an offence, under the 2019 been possible to apply for a licence under Order to release these species in to the environment unless the AWE Section 16 (4) to release rehabilitated animals has obtained a licence to do so – this include Egyptian goose. e.g. grey squirrel, depending on where the AWE is located etc. There is no longer an exemption for release of animals listed under the EU

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Summary * The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019 amends Schedule 9 of the WCA to omit the animal species also listed Wildlife and Countryside Act, Part 1, on the EU Invasive Alien Species list. It is an offence, under the 2019 Order to release these species in to the environment unless the AWE Section 4 Exceptions: has obtained a licence to do so. The WCA provides that it is permissible to take from the wild a sick or injured bird or other The EU Invasive Alien Species protected creature for the purpose of tending it EU Regulation (No. 1143/2014) until is fit for release. If it is injured or diseased and The Invasive Alien Species beyond hope of recovery it may be euthanised. (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019 The right to keep a disabled protected species The EU Regulation came into force on lasts only until it is no longer disabled. It should 1 January 2015. It imposes strict restrictions not be kept in a manner that would inhibit its on a list of species known as ‘Invasive Alien capacity to return to the wild e.g. unsuitable Species of Union concern’. These are species accommodation causing damage to physical whose potential adverse impacts across the or psychological condition (damage to feathers EU are such that concerted action across and integument or mal-imprinting). Europe is required. The restrictions mean that Wildlife and Countryside Act, Part 1, (subject to certain defences, or exemptions Section 7 and Schedule 4 through permits or licences) these species cannot be imported into the EU, kept, bred, Section 7 of the WCA states that if any person transported, placed on the market, used or keeps or has in their possession or under exchanged, allowed to reproduce, grown or their control any bird included in Schedule 4 cultivated, or released into the environment. which has not been registered and ringed or There are currently 66 species on the Union list. marked in accordance with regulations made by the Welsh Ministers, they shall be guilty The 2019 Order came in to force on of an offence. Examples of species that may 1 December 2019. It implements requirements be presented to rescue centres included in contained in the EU Regulation, including Schedule 4 are – Peregrine falcon, Goshawk, setting out the penalties for breach of the Red Kite, Merlin, Red Wing etc. There are 62 restrictions in the EU Regulation, defences species of bird listed under this schedule in and other enforcement-related provisions. Wales. AWE’s should apply to the ‘Animal and The offences contained in the 2019 Order Plant Health Agency’ (APHA) to register a do not apply to anything done under, and in schedule 4 bird. accordance with a permit or a licence. Natural Resources Wales is the licensing Wildlife and Countryside Act, part 1, body in Wales. Section 14 and Schedule 9 In the main, Schedule 9 lists non-native Article 16 of the 2019 Order contains a species that are already established in the defence to the prohibitions of keeping and wild, but which continue to pose a conservation transporting animals listed as species of Union threat to native biodiversity and habitats, concern. Under this exception, companion such that further releases should be regulated. animals can be kept for the remainder of their The Schedule also includes some native natural lives without a permit or a licence species (e.g. the barn owl) in order to provide where the following conditions can be met; a level of control to ensure that releases, the animal is kept as a companion animal, not in particular re-introduction Programmes, for commercial purposes; the animal was kept are carried out in an appropriate manner and before the species’ inclusion on the Union list; biodiversity is properly safeguarded*. and the animal is kept in a contained holding

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and all appropriate measures are put in place the purpose of these Orders is to eradicate to ensure that reproduction or escape are these species. The Non-indigenous Rabbits not possible. (Prohibition of Importation and Keeping) Order 1954 also creates an offence of keeping AWEs may be able to keep species of Union non-indigenous rabbits. concern with or without a licence depending on circumstances. AWEs may not require a The Conservation of Habitats and Species licence from Natural Resources Wales where Regulations 2017 an animal, which is a companion animal, is being kept on a temporary basis before This legislation translates into UK legislation, suitable rehoming as long as; it can continue the EEC Council Directive 92/43/EEC, to be kept as a companion animal; it can be The Conservation of Natural Habitats rehomed with a private individual to kept as and of wild fauna and flora, known as the a companion animal; it can be given to another Habitats Directive. AWE to rehome, in limited circumstances to This legislation protects habitats and keep temporarily as a companion animal before species across Europe and so includes rehoming. Animals kept in reliance on the species found in the UK. These species companion animal exception must be kept in are known as European Protected Species contained holding and appropriate measures (EPS) and these regulations are the primary must be taken to prevent them from escaping regulations protecting these species, NOT the or reproducing. WCA. These species include the otter, AWEs will require a licence from Natural common dormouse and all bats. Resources Wales in the following Section 42 provides protection for these circumstances; keeping an animal which European Protected Species (EPS) which has been taken in from the wild and is to be are listed on Schedule 2. Like the Wildlife kept in captivity for the rest of its natural life; and Countryside Act, it has similarly worded keeping an animal which is believed to have defences for rehabilitation of any species been a companion animal but its owner cannot protected under Section 42. These Regulations be found and it is to be kept in captivity for the require all those who are keeping either rest of its natural life, keeping a companion a; a wild animal of an EPS species or b; animal which is no longer wanted but is not part of, or anything derived of, a wild animal suitable for rehoming. There must be no of an EPS species, to have a licence. commercial aspect to the keeping of animals Although rehabilitation is permitted under kept under licence. the Regulations, the various Statutory Nature Conservation Organisations are considering Destructive Imported Animals Act 1932 time limits for holding different species in care and The Grey Squirrels (Prohibition of before a licence is required. For instance, Importation and Keeping) Order 1937 an AWE does not need a licence to rehabilitate Various Orders are made under this Act to a bat unless intending to keep it for longer than control non-native animals living in this country. six months. The Grey Squirrels Order 1937 creates an offence for keeping grey squirrels in captivity Protection of Badgers Act, 1992 without a licence. The Coypu and Mink Section 6, General exceptions: A person is not Order 1972 creates an offence for keeping guilty of an offence under this Act by reason these species without a licence. It may be only of – difficult to acquire such licences because

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(a) taking or attempting to take a badger otherwise than by his act and was which has been disabled otherwise taken or to be taken solely for the than by his unlawful act and is taken purpose of tending it and releasing or to be taken solely for the purpose it when no longer disabled. of tending it and releasing it when no longer disabled; (2) a person shall not be guilty of an offence (b) killing or attempting to kill a badger under section 1, 2 or 3 of this Act by reason which appears to be so seriously only of the killing of any seal which had been injured or in such a condition that to so seriously disabled otherwise than by his kill it would be an act of mercy has been act that there was no reasonable chance of so seriously disabled otherwise than it recovering. by his unlawful act that there was no reasonable chance of it recovering. Wild Mammals (Protection) Act, 1996 This Act makes it an offence to use a variety Section 5(1) a person is guilty of an offence if, of methods to intentionally cause suffering to except as authorised by a licence under section a wild mammal. It also has exemptions related 10 of the Act, he marks, or attaches any ring, to euthanasia. tag or other marking device to a badger other than one which is lawfully in his possession Section 2, Exceptions from offence under by virtue of such a licence. the Act: (2) A person shall not be guilty of an offence Deer Act, 1991 under this Act by reason of – The Deer Act provides for the hunting of deer (a) the attempted killing of any such wild and so regulates how, and in what manner, mammal as an act of mercy if they deer may be taken. As such it also includes show that the mammal had been so provisions for rehabilitation and/or euthanasia. seriously disabled otherwise than by their unlawful act that there was no Section 6, General exceptions: (2) a person reasonable chance of its recovering. shall not be guilty of an offence under section 2 or section 3 above by reason of any act done Zoo Licensing Act, 1981 for the purpose of preventing the suffering of an injured or diseased deer. Some Wild Animal Welfare Establishments (WAWE) with captive wild animals may need to be registered and inspected as a Zoo under The Conservation of Seals Act, 1970 the Zoo Licensing Act (ZLA). The Conservation of Seals Act was enabled to protect the British seal population, but it For the purposes of licensing, a zoo is defined does give allowances for the control of seals as an establishment: in some circumstances. It also has the following • Where wild animals (as defined by provisions for rehabilitation: section 21 of the ZLA) are kept for The Conservation of Seals Act, 1970, Section 9, exhibition to the public (excludes circuses General Exceptions: and pet shops); (1) a person shall not be guilty of an offence • To which members of the public have under section 2 or 3 of this Act by reason admission for seven days or more within only of – a 12 month period (with or without (a) the taking or attempted taking of being charged). any seal which had been disabled

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Wild Animal Welfare Establishments (WAWE) The Veterinary Medicines Regulations, may open for up to a maximum of 6 days 2013 per year, under the above legislation without The Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR) needing to become licensed under the ZLA. set out the UK controls on veterinary medicines, They should, however, be aware of the extra including their manufacture, advertising, liabilities and responsibilities that opening to marketing, supply and administration. It is the public for any period of time may expose the responsibility of anyone engaged in these them to. activities to comply with the VMR.

Dangerous Wild Animals Act, 1976 Veterinary Cascade Where a Wild Animal Welfare Establishment Wildlife rescue centres and veterinary surgeons (WAWE) is not registered and inspected as engaging with such centres should be aware a Zoo under the ZLA licence, a local authority that legislation in the UK stipulates that only licence may be required to keep those species veterinary medicines are to be used for the listed in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act, 1976. treatment of specific conditions in animals, These species include the adder (Vipera berus) as specified in the product data sheet. and the wild cat (Felis silvestris). Keepers of animals undergoing veterinary treatment are Most veterinary medicines are not authorised normally exempt. for the treatment of wildlife. If there is no suitable veterinary medicine authorised in the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act, 1986 UK to treat a condition in a particular species, The use of animals in experiments and testing a veterinary surgeon can treat an animal under is regulated under the Animals (Scientific their care in accordance with the Cascade. Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA). And although The Cascade is a risk based decision tree ASPA mainly covers animals in research which that allows for clinical judgement to treat an may involve the removal of animals from the animal by deciding which product to use when wild for study, the activity of post release there is no authorised veterinary medicine monitoring and the marking and attachment available in the UK. It is good practice to have of tags may fall under ASPA. written details and a record of all medicines used and for what species under the cascade The Hazardous Waste (England and for inspection by the Veterinary Medicines Wales) Regulations (HWR), 2005 Directorate. AWEs must register premises in Wales where they produce or hold (for example collect or remove) hazardous waste. Hazardous waste is waste that can be harmful to human health or the environment and includes anatomical waste, medicines, sharps and clinical waste. The HWR state that all hazardous waste must be collected by either a registered carrier or exempt carrier. If not, the premises must be notified. There are other environmental regulations that require anyone who carries waste to be registered with Natural Resources Wales before they can do so.

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Appendix 3: Non-animal related legislation

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, • Data Protection for more information see www.ico.org.uk/for-organisations/data- www.hse.gov.uk protection-reform/overview-of-the-gdpr • Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Act 2014, see www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/4/ contents/enacted

Appendix 4: Additional Sources of Information

• Charity Commission www. • Jersey Statutory Regulations and Code charitycommission.gov.uk www.jerseylaw.je/laws/revised/ • Wales Council for Voluntary Action Pages/02.050.aspx www.wcva.wales • Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors • Small Charities Coalition (APBC) www.smallcharities.org.uk www.apbc.org.uk • Institute of Fundraising • Animal Reporting and Movement Service www.institute-of-fundraising.org.uk www.arams.co.uk/Movements.aspx • UK Government advice • British Cattle Movement Service www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to-write-your- www.secure.services.defra.gov.uk/wps/ charitys-governing-document portal/ctso • Animal Welfare Network Wales • Electronic pig movement licensing www.awnwales.org www.eaml2.org.uk/ami/home.eb • Association of Dog and Cat Homes • A list of disinfectants approved for use in www.adch.org.uk Wales • ADCH Minimum Welfare and Operation www.disinfectants.defra.gov.uk/ Standards: DisinfectantsExternal/Default. www.adch.org.uk/about-adch/minimum- aspx?Module=ApprovalsList_SI welfare-operational-standards/ • GB Non-native Species Secretariat • National Equine Welfare Council www.nonnativespecies.org/index. www.newc.co.uk cfm?sectionid=7 • British Veterinary Zoological Society www.bvzs.org

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Appendix 5: Example of a Release Policy

• The AWE is responsible for ensuring • Appropriate selection and surveying the release of any species is legally of release sites should be carried out. permissible. Ideally this should involve staff members • Prior to release animals should be and local ecologists and conservation considered fully fit and able to fend for managers, wildlife workers with local themselves in the wild. Fitness assessment knowledge, and be with the involvement should consider clinical, behavioural, and agreement of the landowner. and physical assessments (weight, body • If animals are to be translocated to new condition score, ability to fly/run etc.). areas there are risks to the existing Written procedures for assessment population of animals of this and other prior to release should be produced and species, due to novel diseases being updated according to new published introduced into an area and these should literature and scientific evidence. be addressed. The International Union • Release should not be carried out if for Conservation of Nature translocation animals are deemed significantly less likely guidelines should be referred to and to thrive in the wild than a conspecific. adhered to unless there are over-riding • Written protocols detailing the assessment sound grounds to depart from them. and decision-making process should be • Under Section 14 of the WCA Wild Animal developed by the centre, particularly with Welfare Establishments (WAWE) must not regard to conditions which may preclude deliberately release or permit to escape release being identified early on in care, into the wild any non-native species and euthanasia carried out as early (and some native species), other than as possible. under licence from the appropriate • Release should be carried out as soon authority. Licence conditions may include as practical following the animal being geographical restrictions of the release deemed fit for release, depending of the animal (e.g. for Grey squirrels). on a range of other factors, including Similar restrictions apply regarding release suitable release sites, current weather and escape to species covered by the conditions, seasonal effects on location Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and (e.g. hibernation, migration), but not being Permitting) Order 2019. unduly delayed. • The aim of wildlife rehabilitation is to release the animal back into its original environment, or another suitable area. For adult animals release into its original area is ideal, as the animal is familiar with it, may hold territory, etc. Release to another suitable area is another option, but with potential issues arising for the animal (lack of familiarity with the area, an existing occupant or social group, and the likelihood of sustaining injury attempting to return to familiar areas).

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Appendix 6: Example of a Euthanasia Policy (in this instance, for wildlife)

• In practice, the main reason for euthanasia – The animal is non-native as defined is a lack of reasonable expectation that the by Section 14 of the WCA, or listed on animal will have as reasonable a chance Schedule 9 of the WCA, or is covered of survival upon release as that of its by the provisions of the Invasive Alien wild counterparts. This decision may be Species (Enforcement and Permitting) made at admission, or at any stage up to Order 2019, and a licence cannot be the point of release. Where it is deemed obtained for its release. necessary, euthanasia should be carried out as early in the rehabilitation process • Long-term captivity of wild animals is as possible, ideally within the first rarely, if ever, an acceptable alternative 24-48 hours, or as soon as it becomes to euthanasia. Long-term captivity should evident that a casualty or orphan is only be considered if an animal cannot unsuitable for release. be released and can be provided with • Most euthanasia decisions will be lifelong captive conditions, which meet based upon: all of the ‘Five Needs’; this will rarely be achievable. Breeding for conservation – The immediate welfare of the animal purposes is only a suitable alternative to e.g. severe injuries or chronic disease release for certain rare species (e.g. red – The medium term welfare – will the squirrels), and requires both suitable animal require major veterinary release sites for the offspring, and suitable intervention which may involve intensive accommodation for the parents. nursing that will expose the animal • A member of staff should be readily to unacceptable levels of stress available at all times to take decisions and/or leave the animal with a regarding the euthanasia of sick animals permanent disability on veterinary advice. Effective humane – The long-term welfare – is the animal method of euthanasia and standard written a suitable candidate for rehabilitation? protocols should be set down. Will it have the necessary physical • Facilities and suitably trained and and mental attributes after veterinary competent staff should be available to intervention and/or subsequent ensure that emergency euthanasia can rehabilitation to survive and enter into be provided at all times, without the need a breeding population after release? for diagnosis by a veterinary surgeon. – The animal is listed on schedule 9 of the • Staff should be aware of, and trained to WCA and a licence cannot be obtained deal with, the public-relations issue that for its release might surround the killing of animals. – Factors other than animal health (e.g. provision of sufficient numbers of suitable release sites, mal-imprinting, likely duration of recovery/rehabilitation, legal requirements, other behavioural concerns) may also be grounds for euthanasia, assuming all practical options are explored

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Appendix 7: Example of a Rehoming Policy (in this instance, for dogs)

Visit: www.hoperescue.org.uk/dogs/adopting-a-hope-rescue-dog

Appendix 8: Notifiable diseases

For more info on Notifiable diseases, visit: www.gov.uk/government/collections/notifiable-diseases- in-animals

Appendix 9: Codes used within this Code

• ADCH: www.adch.org.uk/about-adch/minimum-welfare-operational-standards/ • BVZS: www.bvzs.org/images/uploads/BVZS_Good_Practice_Guidelines_for_Wildlife_ Centres_011016_.pdf • Jersey Statutory Regulations and Code: www.jerseylaw.je/laws/revised/Pages/02.050.aspx • NEWC: www.newc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/CoP-FINAL-WEB-VERSION.pdf