Science of Animal Welfare: Understanding What Animals Want

Animal welfare is the health and well-being of animals, allowing them to have what they want. It is difficult to find a definition that everyone agrees on, but the book provides a simple and accessible guide that emphasizes the animal's own point of view. It discusses the difficulty of studying consciousness in non-human species and highlights the close relationship between animal welfare science and animal ethics. The Science of Animal Welfare is an ideal companion for students, professionals, and anyone interested in animals and their welfare.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Animal welfare is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been the subject of much debate and discussion. It refers to the well-being and condition of animals, encompassing their physical, mental, and emotional states. While there is a general agreement that animal welfare is important, there is no universal definition that everyone can agree on. This guide aims to provide a concise and accessible introduction to animal welfare for anyone who is interested in animals and wants to understand how we can assess their welfare scientifically.

One of the key challenges in defining animal welfare is the fact that animals have different needs and preferences, and what may be considered good welfare for one species may not be the same for another. For example, a cow may prioritize food and water over social interaction, while a dog may value play and companionship. Therefore, it is important to consider the animal's own point of view when assessing their welfare.

One definition of animal welfare that is widely accepted is that it is the condition in which an animal is able to meet its biological needs, such as food, water, shelter, and space, while also being able to express its natural behaviors and exhibit positive emotions. This definition emphasizes the importance of providing animals with a healthy and comfortable environment that allows them to thrive.

Another important aspect of animal welfare is the prevention of harm and suffering. This includes providing animals with adequate nutrition, avoiding physical and psychological stress, and providing medical care when necessary. It also involves addressing issues such as overpopulation, animal cruelty, and habitat destruction.

Assessing animal welfare scientifically is crucial for improving animal welfare in practice. This involves collecting data on animal behavior, health, and welfare, and using this information to develop and implement policies and practices that promote animal well-being. One approach to assessing animal welfare is through the use of welfare indicators, which are measures that can be used to evaluate the condition of animals and identify areas where improvements can be made.

One example of a welfare indicator is the use of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones are released in response to stress and can have negative effects on animal health and welfare. High levels of stress hormones can lead to physical and psychological problems, such as obesity, infertility, and aggression. By monitoring stress hormone levels, we can identify animals that are experiencing stress and take steps.

Another example of a welfare indicator is the use of behavior scores, such as aggression, fear, and social interaction. These scores can be used to evaluate the quality of an animal's social environment and identify areas where improvements can be made. For example, if an animal is displaying signs of aggression, it may be necessary to provide it with more social interaction or to address underlying health problems.

In addition to using welfare indicators, it is also important to consider the animal's own point of view when assessing their welfare. This involves using techniques such as animal behavior observation and ethology, which involve studying the natural behavior of animals and understanding their emotional states. By observing animals in their natural environments, we can gain a better understanding of their needs and preferences and develop interventions that are more likely to promote their well-being.

One example of this approach is the use of enrichment, which involves providing animals with a variety of stimuli and activities that promote their physical and mental health. Enrichment can include toys, puzzles, and social interaction with other animals, and has been shown to improve the welfare of animals in captivity.

Another example of this approach is the use of natural behavior, which involves providing animals with a habitat that is similar to their natural environment. This can include providing animals with access to natural sunlight, fresh air, and vegetation, and can help to reduce stress and promote physical and mental health.

In conclusion, animal welfare is a complex and multifaceted concept that requires a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach. By considering the animal's own point of view and using scientific methods to assess their welfare, we can improve animal well-being and promote a more ethical and sustainable relationship between humans and animals.

Weight: 464g
Dimension: 178 x 254 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198848981