What are the laws governing farm animal welfare?

In Virginia, animal welfare laws fall under state statutes and regulations that are designed to protect animals from cruel, inhumane, and neglectful treatment. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing animal welfare laws in the state. At the state level, the Virginia Code states that it is unlawful for any person to subject an animal to cruel and inhumane treatment, neglect, or abandonment. This includes leaving an animal in a hot car, failing to provide adequate food, water, and shelter, or using excessive force or inhumane means to train animals. In addition, specific regulations apply to farm animals. For instance, Virginia Code requires that all farm animals be cared for in a humane manner that is consistent with accepted husbandry practices. This includes providing livestock with food, water, and shelter that meets established standards of care. Livestock must also be allowed to move around freely and in a safe environment. Finally, Virginia Code prohibits certain farm operations that are deemed to be cruel and inhumane. These include docking, cutting, or cropping of an animal’s tail, pinning cattle’s ears, and branding, piercing, or cutting a farm animal’s skin. Overall, these laws ensure that farm animals living in Virginia are provided with humane and safe treatment. Those who violate the state’s animal welfare laws may face fines, imprisonment, and other penalties.

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What are the laws governing farm animal welfare?

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