[Animal Welfare Service of Lower Saxony--first report of experiences]

The Animal Welfare Service of Lower Saxony-part of the state veterinary services within the regional government of Weser-Ems-started its work in February 1995 at Oldenburg. The experiences during the first 18 months of activity are discussed. The main duties of the Service consist of: Advising the local district veterinary authorities concerning "problem" holdings including common control visits on occasion. Advising the offices of the court on matters concerning animal protection. Advising government offices and legislative bodies on the development and improvement of animal welfare legislation. Working on special problems of animal welfare. In particular the Service aided by various working groups is currently establishing welfare recommendations for the special fields of turkey fattening and all year grazing of cattle and sheep.