Housing conditions contrary to animal welfare; notification

According to the Animal Welfare Act, animals must be fed, cared for and housed in a manner appropriate to their species and needs.

In particular, it is prohibited to torture or kill animals without reasonable cause. If you observe such a violation or receive information about it, you should report it to the police or the respective district administration authority (veterinary office). Reports submitted anonymously will also be processed.

In your report, give as much detail as possible about the place, time, type and course of the incident you have observed or are aware of. Name the animals involved and describe the pain, suffering or damage you believe the animals have suffered. If known, give the name and contact details (address, telephone number) of the animal owner or person responsible, other persons involved and any witnesses. If you have photos or videos of the reported incident, please also send these to the police or the veterinary office. With the help of your information, appropriate checks can then be carried out.

Note on anonymous reports:

In individual cases, the reporter's knowledge of the location may exceed that of the relevant officer. If the location of the animal keeping is described inaccurately or misleadingly (this mainly applies to animal keeping outside towns without street names and house numbers), animals may not be found promptly in such cases because the authorities do not have the opportunity to find out the exact location in the case of anonymous reports.

The prerequisites are

• You have observed or become aware of a relevant incident.
• You have a well-founded suspicion.

None. Please note: The sooner authorities receive relevant information, the faster they can help neglected or mistreated animals. Therefore, do not hesitate to make your report.

None.