The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is requesting public comments on standards for handling captive wild and exotic animals, as well as strengthening environmental enrichment for all regulated species. The goal of this request, known as an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR), is to inform future proposed changes to the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations and standards.
APHIS is asking for comments in three areas:
- public handling of wild and exotic animals at licensed exhibitors,
- training of personnel who handle wild and exotic animals at licensed facilities, and
- changes to all regulated animals’ environments to promote their psychological well-being.
“Wild and exotic animals may endanger themselves, their handlers, and the public when they are in direct contact with people,” said Dr. Betty Goldentyer, Deputy Administrator of APHIS’ Animal Care Program. “With public feedback, we are working to strengthen our current standards and better protect animal welfare and public safety.”
APHIS believes that strengthening the standards will benefit licensees, Animal Care inspectors, and the public, and would aid in the enforcement of the AWA.
APHIS also wants the public’s input on possible new standards for enriching the environments of captive wild and exotic animals. Environmental enrichment for animals under a licensee’s care is vital to their psychological health and welfare.
The AWA sets basic standards for humane care and treatment for certain animals that are used in exhibition or research. More information about the AWA is available at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalwelfare/awa/ct_awa_program_information
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