The Ramiswil case is one of the most serious animal welfare cases in recent years in Switzerland. The killing of 122 dogs and the confiscation of numerous other animals deeply shocked the public. The investigation report now makes it clear that it is not an isolated failure but a structural weakness in enforcement. For STS, it is clear: The identified deficiencies must have concrete consequences.
STS Files Criminal Complaint
The report inadequately discusses the precise circumstances, reasons, and methods with which the dogs in Ramiswil were killed. The question of proportionality plays an important role. The killing of all 122 dogs needs to be fully clarified by the investigative authorities and may lead to legal actions. Belonging to a certain breed should not be a criterion for killing. The health status and temperament of each animal must be thoroughly examined before a decision to kill is made. Therefore, after today's publication of the report on the administrative investigation, the Swiss Animal Welfare STS has decided to file a criminal complaint against unknown persons.
Recognise Known Risks Earlier
The report shows that the problem extends beyond the animal owner and that state control mechanisms were insufficient. "It is evident that not only the animal owner failed in this case but also the supervisory authorities. When around 122 dogs have to be killed in the end, the question of the responsibility of the authorities inevitably arises," says Peter V. Kunz, President of the Swiss Animal Welfare STS.
The holder was already known to the authorities and had previously been noted for animal welfare issues. From the STS perspective, the case exemplifies that known problematic holdings must be more consistently and closely monitored. Early and decisive action could have contributed to avoiding this escalation. Furthermore, the report makes it clear that relevant information was exchanged inefficiently between cantons. Both animals and people move across canton borders – enforcement should therefore not end at canton borders.
Consistently Implement Good Laws
Switzerland has high animal welfare standards and internationally recognized legislation. However, the current findings clearly demonstrate that there are deficits in enforcement.
The STS therefore reiterates the call for:
- consistent and better-coordinated implementation of animal welfare regulations across Switzerland
- sufficient resources for veterinary services
- more binding structures for inter-cantonal information exchange
- stronger institutional cooperation with animal welfare organizations
In the Ramiswil case, the STS offered specific support to the responsible authorities: in housing the confiscated animals, during the later horse auction, and in participation in an independent investigative commission. This potential must be better utilised in the future.
The STS expects the canton of Solothurn to quickly implement the report's recommendations and to demonstrate which organisational consequences will be drawn from the case.
STS Expands Preventative Offerings
Prior to the Ramiswil case, the STS had already decided to consolidate and expand its activities in the area of animal welfare inspections and animal trade.
The national animal welfare reporting office is being further strengthened in terms of staff and serves as a central contact point for the public to report problematic animal holdings.
For Enquiries
Manuel Iseli
Swiss Animal Welfare STS
Media Officer
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Swiss Animal Welfare STS
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