Animal Welfare Training Ordinance (AWTO)
Originally 4a. Chapter inserted by No I of the FDHA Ordinance of 23 Oct. 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3781).
English is not an official language of the Swiss Confederation. This translation is provided for information purposes only and has no legal force.
Art. 44a Learning objective
The objective of training in accordance with Article 76 paragraph 3 AniWO must be to ensure that persons who use equipment for therapeutic purposes when handling dogs: a. know when therapy with such equipment is appropriate; and b. can use this equipment correctly, with due care and with the necessary moderation.
Tern amended by No I of the FDHA Ordinance of 10 Jan. 2018, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 627). This amendment has been made throughout the text.
Art. 44b Form and scope
1 Training consists of a theoretical part and a traineeship. 2 The theoretical part lasts at least 12 hours and the traineeship at least 20 working days, of which at least five working days each must be spent with two different therapists who are experienced in the use of such equipment and have a cantonal licence.
Art. 44c Content of the theoretical part
1 The theoretical part provides basic knowledge of the following aspects: a. learning theory and behavioural science; b. application of ethical principles when handling dogs and evaluation of whether therapeutic methods are compliant with animal welfare requirements. 2 It provides in-depth knowledge of the following aspects: a. relevant provisions of animal welfare legislation; b. equipment intended for use and its effects – particularly the effects of electrical current and acoustic signals – on the body.
Art. 44d Content of the traineeship
The traineeship must include practical exercises in: a. evaluating the character of a dog; b. the way therapists handle a dog; c. methods for dog therapy; d. selection and performance of therapeutic measures likely to produce a successful outcome.
Art. 45–48
Repealed by No I of the FDHA Ordinance of 10 Nov. 2018, with effect from 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 627).