Which federal law regulates the humane treatment of animals?

The Animal Welfare Act is the primary federal law that governs the humane treatment of animals. Enacted in 1966, this law sets standards for the care and treatment of animals used in research, exhibition, transport, and by dealers. It addresses various aspects of animal welfare, including proper housing, feeding, veterinary care, and socialization needs. This law aims to ensure that animals are not subjected to undue suffering or inhumane conditions, making it a cornerstone of animal protection legislation in the United States.

Other options may address specific aspects of animal welfare or protection, but they do not comprehensively cover the broader standards of humane treatment that the Animal Welfare Act provides. The Animal Cruelty Act, for example, may target specific acts of cruelty but lacks the comprehensive regulatory framework regarding the care of animals. Similarly, the Endangered Species Act focuses on the protection of endangered species and their habitats, while the Puppy Protection Act, which is less widely known, pertains specifically to breeding dogs and does not encompass all types of animals or the broader principles of humane treatment.