Training Police Officers to Better Protect Animals
There are moments when a single decision can determine an animal’s fate. That is why it is so important that the person on the scene knows how to respond.
Together with the Association Lawyers for Animals, we are carrying out a nationwide training programme for the Police. The sessions are held at all regional police headquarters across Poland, ensuring that every police officer has the opportunity to gain practical knowledge on how to effectively respond to cases of animal abuse.
Training Across Poland
Together, we have already trained more than 3,000 police officers. So far, we have conducted training sessions at:
- Regional Police Headquarters in Białystok, Łódź, Gorzów Wielkopolski, Rzeszów, Katowice, Szczecin, Kraków, Kielce, and Opole, as well as twice at the Warsaw Metropolitan Police Headquarters;
- Police Training Centres in Legionowo, Katowice, and Piła;
- the Police Academy in Szczytno.
During the training sessions, we focus on the issues that most often determine the course of a case: proper assessment of the situation, knowledge of the law, and the ability to apply legal provisions in practice. The goal is to ensure that actions taken on the scene are accurate, effective, and fully compliant with the law.
The legal content of the training is delivered by lawyers from the Association Lawyers for Animals, while Mushika Foundation finances the programme because we believe that lasting change begins with well-prepared people. People who, when faced with situations requiring a quick response, have not only the necessary tools but also the confidence to use them effectively.
Our goal is to train officers from all 16 regional police headquarters and all 6 Police schools in Poland.
Guidebook for the Police
Alongside the training programme, all Police schools in Poland have received the publication “The Animal Protection Act – A Guide for the Police”, developed jointly with the Association Lawyers for Animals. This practical handbook supports police officers in their daily work. Printed copies are distributed to participants during every training session.
Our educational efforts extend beyond the Police. We have also delivered training for public administration employees and educational lessons for primary and secondary school students as part of Education Day events.
Through these activities, we are strengthening the systemic protection of animals by promoting greater empathy, knowledge, and effectiveness in the enforcement of animal protection laws.
