Animal Welfare Officer Training

Join us for Animal Welfare Officer Training, a two-day, research-based interactive training on proven animal handling and slaughterhouse practices in a practical hands-on format. Course is taught by leading specialists from the University of Bristol (United Kingdom) and Penn State Extension professionals.

Who Should Attend?

This special program is designed for live production managers, animal welfare officers (AWO), and processing plant supervisors who are interested in practices to improve product quality and animal welfare.

The workshop will be of particular interest to companies interested in EU trade partnerships and companies or individuals who desire to benchmark and certify their animal welfare practices.

To Be Covered

The workshop is informative and interactive. Discussion among participants is provided for each topic. Content covers the significant aspects of animal behavior, feed and water withdrawal, loading and transport, holding area, movement and restraint, stunning and slaughter. An important concept is the interrelationship of production steps that lead to cost-effective, high-quality food products while recognizing the individual welfare of the animal.

AWO Certification

Certification as a Animal Welfare Officer (AWO) is included based on individual participant assessment. Participants are assessed, not through completion of a formal examination, but via frequent multiple-choice questions using wireless keypad technology. Engaged discussion is offered throughout the workshop for learning and sharing ideas and content. The goal of this program is to learn how enhanced welfare practices can significantly contribute to improving the value of your animal protein products.