Animal welfare
Animals are sentient beings. Volt recognizes that humans share this planet with other life forms that should live together in an interdependent ecosystem. The well-being of animals in human care should be reflected in the fact that they do not go hungry or thirsty, that they do not feel unwell, that they do not suffer pain, injury or illness, that they can express their normal behaviour patterns and, finally, that they do not need to be afraid.
Strictly review and implement animal protection laws
Although Switzerland has a similarly strict animal protection law, this is not sufficiently checked and enforced. More frequent unannounced inspections and stricter sanctions are intended to guarantee compliance with animal welfare.Introduce video surveillance in stables and slaughterhouses
In addition to the controls, stables and slaughterhouses should be monitored with video cameras, as is the case in Spain has already been implemented.Ban gassing of male chicks
Shredding live chicks has been banned since 2020. Gasification should also be banned and replaced by in-ovo technology.Ban unnecessary use of antibiotics and steroids
Routine, preventative or other use of antibiotics, steroids or other medications should be prohibited unless it is absolutely necessary for health reasons and prescribed by licensed veterinarians.Prohibit breeding of physically impaired breeds
The breeding of physically impaired domestic animal breeds (brachycephalic/flat-faced breeds) that exhibit stereotypical chronic health and welfare problems should be banned.Prohibit the use of animals for entertainment purposes
The breeding and keeping of animals for pure entertainment purposes, such as in circuses, aquariums or petting zoos, should be banned. Zoos should be used primarily for species conservation in order to breed and release endangered species back into the wild.Research alternatives to animal testing
Financial resources for research into alternatives to animal testing should be increased. A clear plan should be developed with concrete goals for reducing, refining and replacing animal testing.