The American Humane Working Animals™ program helps verify the welfare and humane treatment of animals wherever they live and work. American Humane’s Working Animals™ Certification program audit is focused on assessing the condition, well-being, and welfare of domesticated animals trained to perform certain specialized tasks, which may appear at public demonstrations, performances and/or appearances.
The program enforces rigorous, science-based, and comprehensive criteria for animal welfare, reviewed by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee comprised of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, veterinary medicine, and animal behavior.
Welfare Indicators
Areas of certification evaluation include—but are not limited to—housing and environment, animal health, appearance and behavior, nutrition, veterinary care, and cleanliness/sanitation. In addition to permanent housing facilities, American Humane assesses transport, public performances, social interactions with the public, safe and stimulating temporary environments, and evidence of thorough preparation and protocols established to handle medical care.
