Animal welfare is a complex and multi-faceted topic with scientific, ethical, economic, cultural, social, religious and political dimensions. Since the adoption of the overarching law on animal protection, we still do not have all the necessary by-laws and there are several inadequate and deficient ones, leading to many uncertainties in theory and practice. This is most probably the reason why animal protection is still under-emphasised and why citizens are increasingly confronted with situations where they do not know what to do or who to turn to - who is the competent authority.
The master's thesis is based on two research questions and two hypotheses in the context of the research objectives. The field itself is very broad, so I have focused mainly on the protection and welfare of pets, especially the protection of dogs. I used several research methods, most of the work was secondary research where I used the normative method to study domestic and foreign expert sources, web content and legal bases related to the topic. By analysing the methods and measures of animal protection and welfare control, I gained insight into the current situation and proposed improvements based on the results of the analysis, in particular to update legislation on torture and animal welfare. I have analysed the area of identification of dangerous dogs, which are considered to be common pets. Through my research, I highlight the problems of animal control in this area and present possible better approaches that would reduce the problem and allow for better protection of animals. I use a case study to show the relationship between the regulations in force and how these are reflected in practice, particularly in the treatment of dangerous animals and I have concluded that the power of veterinary inspections to achieve the objectives of the current legislation is limited.
I expect that the findings and the facts presented will contribute to a higher level of public awareness. It can be expected that the results of the research methods will show the weaknesses or difficulties encountered by the competent authorities in their work. On the basis of the findings, I have highlighted solutions or suggestions for improvement and possible necessary changes to legislation. Through my master thesis I aim to contribute to better animal protection and to facilitate a possible reduction of animal torture and neglect. I want to contribute to this by proposing better measures, such as granting rights to certain existing institution or setting up a new institution responsible for animal protection to deal with the situation in greater detail and precision.
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