Specialist regulatory issues involving protected species, zoological facilities, research animals and the interfaces with hunting and conservation law.
Protected species and trade
Keeping, acquiring, transporting or selling a protected animal may require proof of lawful origin, permits or certificates. EU wildlife-trade rules and national conservation law interact. A private purchase agreement does not replace the required public-law documents.
Zoos and exhibitions
Authorisation, species-appropriate housing, safety, veterinary care and conservation obligations require a coordinated review. Temporary exhibitions and transfers between facilities can raise distinct conditions. We assess the proposed activity and the competent authority’s requirements before contracts are finalised.
Research and the 3Rs
Animal research is governed by a specific approval and oversight framework. Replacement, reduction and refinement, project justification, severity assessment, competent staff and records are relevant issues. Changes to an authorised project may need a further procedure before implementation.
Example: moving an animal between institutions
A transfer can involve welfare, animal-health, species-protection and transport requirements at the same time. We map the required documents and responsibilities so that institutional agreement is not mistaken for regulatory clearance.
Preparing for advice
Please provide the relevant contracts or official correspondence, a dated account of events and any technical or veterinary reports. Identify the parties, the country or German state involved, and every known deadline. We will agree the appropriate next step after reviewing the documents.
Related services
Legal framework & further reading
Reviewed 8 November 2026. Examples are illustrative and do not describe reported client matters.
Discuss your matter
Send a short description, the parties involved and any deadline. We check conflicts and agree the scope and fees before starting work. For urgent matters, telephone our office as well.