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Swedish animal welfare legislation
With human responsibility as the fundamental concept, Sweden is one of the many countries that have passed legislation on keeping animals. Swedish society presumes that people use and keep animals to serve their purposes. The legislation and regulations are based on society´s judgment of animal needs and the ethical positions we take.
Thus far, society has taken on our collective responsibility. Animal welfare laws establish the framework, but ultimately the responsibility also rests with each individual who takes care of, or in various contexts comes into contact with animals.
The Swedish Animal Welfare Act recognises animals as having intrinsic value as individuals beyond the value they have for humans. Every individual is given protection against unnecessary suffering and disease, and should also be given the opportunity to act naturally. The intent of the Act is to assure that animals are treated well during their lifetime.
The Swedish Animal Welfare Act recognises animals as having intrinsic value as individuals beyond the value they have for humans. Every individual is given protection against unnecessary suffering and disease, and should also be given the opportunity to act naturally. The intent of the Act is to assure that animals are treated well during their lifetime.
Legislation and regulations on animal welfare are divided into different levels:
Swedish Animal Welfare Act
Swedish Animal Welfare Ordinance
Special Provisions
General Advice
Text: Nilla Johansson
Responsible for content: Mats Ulfendahl, Secretary General of Medicine and health, Swedish Research Council.
Editor: Peter Tillhammar, Swedish Research Council. Contact: Send email to the editorial staff.
Editor: Peter Tillhammar, Swedish Research Council. Contact: Send email to the editorial staff.
