What aspects of animal welfare do the Animal Welfare Regulations cover?

The Animal Welfare Regulations encompass a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring the humane treatment of animals, particularly those used in research settings. This includes specific guidelines for the housing conditions animals must be kept in, ensuring they have adequate space, shelter, and environmental enrichment to promote their well-being. Additionally, the regulations address the handling of animals, detailing how they should be treated to minimize stress and suffering during interactions with humans and when undergoing research procedures.

While transportation and breeding, sales and educational programs, and training and adoption processes are important aspects related to animal welfare, their coverage is not as explicitly detailed within the Animal Welfare Regulations as the standards for housing and handling. The regulations are primarily focused on providing a humane environment and minimizing harm or distress to animals, particularly in scientific research scenarios, making this aspect critical for compliance and ethical treatment.