Course Description

The "Animal Welfare and Poultry Investigations" course is designed to equip animal law enforcement officers, Animal Control, Animal Services, the public, and professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to investigate and address potential cases of cruelty, neglect, and violations of animal welfare laws related to poultry. As more individuals keep poultry in their backyards, understanding how to handle such investigations effectively is becoming increasingly important. Animal Law enforcement is receiving increasing calls and must respond appropriately and efficiently to address concerns and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Investigating backyard poultry issues can be important for ensuring the health and welfare of the birds, as well as addressing any potential violations of local regulations or animal welfare laws.

What this course covers:

  • Laws and Regulations

    • Common legal issues related to backyard chickens. • Authority and responsibilities of chicken keepers • Common issues, including space requirements, types of structures, fencing, and permits.

  • Rise of the Urban Chicken

    • Rise of urban chickens due to the back-to-earth movement, preppers, COVID, and pets. • Legal considerations and the importance of following laws. • Different motivations for keeping chickens, including as pets and for prepping purposes.

  • Care

    • Shelter needs, roosting areas, and the importance of a dry and well-ventilated coop. • Space requirements for roaming and penned chickens. • Feeding considerations, including appropriate food for different life stages. • Water requirements and issues related to cold weather.

  • Chicken Health

    • Identification of common health issues like mites, spurs, bumblefoot, fowl pox, and avian influenza. • Prevention of diseases through biosecurity measures. • Tips for dealing with specific health concerns.

Course Curriculum

  • 1

    Poultry Investigations Key Points and Video Presentation

    • Video Presentation (1:50:04)

    • Key Points and Handout Photos

  • 2

    Next Steps

    • Completion

Instructor: Dr. Charlotte Robinson, DVM

  • $25.00

    Our courses are designed to be self-paced and tailored to individual students. Upon completion, you'll receive a certificate. The price quoted is for a single student enrollment, and you will have access to the course materials for six months. If you are an agency and want to provide this training to your colleagues, we offer a group discount for groups of 8 or more. Please contact us at [email protected] for more information on this offer. We'll be happy to help you.

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