View source for Animal Welfare Act - USA

[[File:Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare Regulations.pdf|alt=Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare Regulations|thumb|Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare Regulations PDF]]
The '''Animal Welfare Act''' (AWA) is a federal law that sets general standards for humane care and treatment of certain animals used for research, exhibition, or as pets. It also regulates the transportation of animals in commerce. The law is enforced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

The regulations are divided into four parts: Part 1 defines the terms used in the regulations; Part 2 specifies the regulations for dealers, exhibitors, research facilities, intermediate handlers, carriers, and auction sales; Part 3 sets the standards for the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of various animals; and Part 4 establishes the rules of practice governing proceedings under the AWA.