Who do I contact if I have any questions?
If you have any questions about the evaluation process or other topics regarding the Austrian Animal Welfare Centre, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Austrian Animal Welfare Centre
T +43 1 25077-6239
How much does the assessment process cost?
For more information about the pricing system please visit our costs page. If you have any further questions, we are happy to advise you personally.
What is the expected duration of an assessment of pet accommodations or pet accessories?
That depends on the product and the current workload of the Austrian Animal Welfare Centre. Experience has shown that for simple products such as leashes, muzzles, toys and transport boxes, the assessment, including the preparation of the expert report, is usually possible in a few weeks (4-8 weeks).
However, in the case of more complex (technical) equipment/accessories, the assessment can take longer.
To ensure a quick and easy assessment process, documents submitted should describe the product as precisely as possible (material information, plans, operating instructions, any existing scientific studies, etc.).
If you have any questions, please contact us!
What is the expected duration of an assessment of animal housing systems and stable facilities for farm animals?
That depends on the product and the current workload of the Austrian Animal Welfare Centre. Experience has shown that in non-complex cases, in which sufficient data can be obtained for the assessment through an on-site assessment and experience from reference companies etc., as well as relevant literature, the assessment can be completed in 1-3 months.
It takes longer if more extensive data collection is necessary, if there is hardly any scientific literature and studies or if a practical examination by an official inspection body is required.
To ensure a quick and easy assessment process, documents submitted should describe the product as precisely as possible (material information, plans, operating instructions, any existing scientific studies, etc.).
If you have any questions, please contact us!
What attachments should be included in the application?
The attachments should describe the product as precisely as possible. Exact dimensions, plans, construction details, advertising leaflets, photos and any existing scientific studies and test reports etc. should be submitted.
What is the basis for the assessment?
All products are checked for their compliance with the legal requirements (Austrian Animal Welfare Act including regulations and EU legislation). Furthermore, the assessment is based on state-of-the-art science and research as well as practical experience and comparisons with similar products.
If the product has already been examined for compliance with animal welfare requirements in another country and relevant documents are available, such documents shall be submitted to the Austrian Animal Welfare Centre and confirmed by the Austrian Animal Welfare Centre if the examinations are based on requirements comparable to Austrian requirements.
Practical experience is gained through assessments in reference companies. If there is insufficient information on animal welfare aspects and further data is needed, more extensive practical examinations will be performed in cooperation with an official inspection body.
If sufficient information is available, the product will be evaluated in an expert report from the Austrian Animal Welfare Centre.
