"We are proposing these changes to help ensure that dogs and cats protected under the AWA are treated in a humane manner," said Michael V. Dunn, assistant secretary for marketing and regulatory programs. "Continuous confinement of dogs on tethers is considered by many to be inhumane, and exposing dogs and cats to high temperatures can cause serious trauma or death. We also believe that coated wire flooring in dog and cat cages will improve sanitation, help eliminate foot injuries, and provide comfort for the animals."
The proposed temperature changes state that ambient temperatures must never exceed 90°F (32.2°C ) when dogs or cats are present.
"These proposals reflect concerns voiced by the public and affected industries during a series of public meetings we held earlier this year," Dunn continued. "These meetings are an important component of our continuing efforts to improve standards of care and strengthen enforcement of the AWA."
For further information or a copy of Docket No. 95-078-1 (the proposed tethering and temperature requirements) or Docket No. 95-100-1 (the proposed flooring requirements) contact:
Stephen Smith, animal health technician, animal care, REAC, APHIS, USDA, Suite 6D02, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234, phone: (301) 734-7833.
These notices were published in the July 2 Federal Register.
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Contents, Animal Welfare Information Center Newsletter
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The Animal Welfare Information Center
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Agricultural Research Service
National Agricultural Library
10301 Baltimore Ave.
Beltsville, MD 20705-2351
Phone: (301) 504-6212
FAX: (301) 504-7125
E-mail: awic@nal.usda.gov
