Animal Welfare Act (AWA)

The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) is a U.S. federal law that sets standards for the humane treatment of animals in research, exhibition, transport, and by dealers. It aims to ensure that animals are provided with adequate housing, nutrition, veterinary care, and humane handling. The law applies primarily to animals used in research, zoos, and circuses, but excludes farm animals and pets in homes. The AWA is enforced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which conducts inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with these standards, promoting the ethical treatment of animals in various settings.