Animal Health & Welfare Training for Police Officers

This practice-oriented training program equips police officers and other enforcement professionals with the skills to recognize signs of animal suffering, assess animal health, and collaborate effectively with veterinarians. Developed by the Police Academy in collaboration with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, the training combines theoretical instruction with practical site visits, including to the university farm De Tolakker.

During the sessions, experts—including equine veterinarian Yteke Elte—discuss a range of situations where animal welfare is at risk, from neglect to illegal trade. In addition to knowledge transfer, the program emphasizes collaboration with chain partners such as the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) and the National Animal Welfare Inspection Service.

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

• Make a well-founded assessment of animal health and welfare on-site
• Approach different species in an appropriate and safe manner
• Work and communicate more effectively with veterinarians and other field partners
• Identify and respond adequately to signs of animal abuse, illegal breeding, and neglect
• Expand and apply their network of relevant organizations and authorities in casework

Today’s challenges call for well-equipped professionals who can act appropriately in situations involving animals. Police officers are often the first to arrive on the scene and carry a crucial responsibility in safeguarding animal welfare. This program provides tools to act with confidence, knowledge, and collaboration. It is not a veterinary qualification, but it is an essential deepening of knowledge for anyone who encounters animals and animal suffering in their work.