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Ssuna P, Crump A, Siegmund K. Animal Welfare Guidelines for International Development Organisations in the Global South. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2012. [PMID: 38998122 PMCID: PMC11240469 DOI: 10.3390/ani14132012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
International development organisations have improved billions of human lives in the Global South. However, in both their projects and advice to governments, most of these organisations neglect animal welfare. This blindspot matters. Poor welfare standards risk the organisation's reputation, particularly with donors; they reduce livestock lifespans and productivity, harming recipients; and they cause animals unnecessary pain and suffering. Here, we set out animal welfare guidelines for international development organisations. They were developed through extensive stakeholder engagement with organisations, donors, and recipients, especially in Africa. To comprehensively cover animal welfare, the guidelines encompass governance structure within the organisation, staff training, standard operating procedures, water, food, housing, social isolation, enrichment, drainage and waste disposal, disease, invasive procedures, transport, slaughter, breeds, record-keeping, and monitoring and evaluation of success. We urge international development organisations to adopt and institutionalise these guidelines, so they promote good animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Ssuna
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Animal Welfare Competence Center for Africa (AWeCCA), Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 7062, Uganda
| | - Andrew Crump
- Animal Welfare Science and Ethics, Royal Veterinary College, London NW1 0TU, UK
- Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science, London School of Economics and Political Science, London WC2A 2AE, UK
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Di Gennaro G, Licata F, Pujia A, Montalcini T, Bianco A. How may we effectively motivate people to reduce the consumption of meat? Results of a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Prev Med 2024; 184:108007. [PMID: 38762144 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.108007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Excessive meat consumption (MC) is associated with multiple health risks. Additionally, it can undermine environmental sustainability and affect the potential improvement of animal welfare. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of literacy interventions (LIs) in reducing MC. METHODS Studies assessing the efficacy of LIs addressing health risks, environmental sustainability and/or animal welfare in reducing MC were searched. We used random-effects meta-analysis to estimate the overall efficacy and conducted subgroup analyses to identify the most effective information contents. Additionally, meta-regression analyses investigated participants' age, LI duration, and follow-up length influence on LIs' efficacy. RESULTS Fourteen studies involving more than ten thousand subjects were meta-analyzed. The pooled estimate showed that LIs had a small (Hedges's g = 0.15; 95%CI: 0.06-0.25) but statistically significant effect in reducing MC. Subgroup analysis showed that the highest efficacy was achieved when subjects were alarmed about health risks (g = 0.29; 95% CI: -0.02, 0.60), compared to informing about the risks for the environment (g = 0.18; 95% CI: -0.15, 0.51) and for animal welfare (g = 0.02; 95%CI: -0.08, 0.11). The meta-regression analysis indicated that LIs had greater efficacy in younger individuals and when the intervention duration was longer. Conversely, it was suggested that efficacy improves as the length of follow-up increases. CONCLUSIONS Informing about health risks related to MC temporarily decreased its intake, while informing about the impact on environmental sustainability or animal welfare was ineffective. Furthermore, long-lasting LIs achieve long-term dietary change toward MC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianfranco Di Gennaro
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Francesca Licata
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Arturo Pujia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Montalcini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Aida Bianco
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
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Valverde A, González-Miranda JA, Sevilla F, Mora S, Roldan ERS, Vargas C, González R. Perceptions of Animal Welfare on Livestock: Evidence from College Agronomy Students in Costa Rica. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1398. [PMID: 38791616 PMCID: PMC11117388 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Ethical considerations regarding our treatment of animals have gained strength, leading to legislation and a societal focus across various disciplines. This is a subject of study within curricula related to agri-food sciences. The aim was to determine the perceptions of agronomy university students concerning animal welfare in livestock production systems. A survey was conducted to encompass various aspects, from participants' sociodemographic attributes to their attitudes and behaviors regarding animal welfare and the consumption of animal products. Statistical analysis, performed using R software, delved into the associations between participants' characteristics and their perspectives on the ethical, bioethical, and legal dimensions of animal welfare. Associations between demographic factors and ethical viewpoints among students were identified. Gender differences emerged in animal treatment perceptions, while rural and urban environments impacted perspectives on various animals. Bioethical considerations revealed distinctive disparities based on gender and education in concerns regarding animal welfare, value perceptions, evaluations of animal behaviors, and opinions on animal research. It is crucial to distinguish between animal welfare and the ethical considerations arising from coexisting with sentient beings capable of experiencing suffering. Ethical theories provide a lens through which we perceive our obligations toward animals. The responsibility to ensure animal welfare is firmly rooted in recognizing that animals, like humans, experience pain and physical suffering. Consequently, actions causing unjustified suffering or mistreatment, particularly for entertainment purposes, are considered morally unacceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Valverde
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Center for Research and Development in Sustainable Agriculture in the Humid Tropics, School of Agronomy, Costa Rica Institute of Technology (ITCR), San Carlos Campus, Alajuela 223-21002, Costa Rica
| | | | - Francisco Sevilla
- Doctorate in Natural Sciences for Development (DOCINADE), Costa Rica Institute of Technology (ITCR), San Carlos Campus, Alajuela 223-21002, Costa Rica;
| | - Sara Mora
- Faculty of Philosophy and Letters, School of Philosophy, National University (UNA), Omar Dengo Campus, Heredia 86-3000, Costa Rica;
| | - Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, National Museum of Natural Sciences, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Celso Vargas
- School of Social Sciences, Costa Rica Institute of Technology (ITCR), Cartago Campus, Cartago 159-7050, Costa Rica;
| | - Rodolfo González
- School of Languages and Social Sciences, Costa Rica Institute of Technology (ITCR), San Carlos Campus, Alajuela 223-21002, Costa Rica;
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Edwards-Callaway L, Davis M, Dean L, McBride B. Stakeholder Perceptions of Animal Welfare as a Component of Sustainable Beef Programs in the United States-A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1348. [PMID: 38731352 PMCID: PMC11083033 DOI: 10.3390/ani14091348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate how stakeholders in the United States beef industry incorporate animal welfare into their sustainability programs. A survey was administered online to the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef membership. Twenty-seven surveys were analyzed. Most respondents (n = 26, 96%) had sustainability programs that incorporated animal welfare. Most respondents believed that welfare positively impacted environmental (n = 25/26, 96%), economic (n = 25/26, 96%), and social (n = 26/26, 100%) sustainability. The thematic analysis of five free response questions identified ten themes: Animal Care, Regulations and Guidelines, Responsibility, Consumers and Stakeholders, Performance and Efficiency, Financial Impact, Connectedness, Critical Component, Animal-based Outcomes, and Employees. When asked to define welfare, the most common themes were Animal Care and Regulations and Guidelines. When asked why welfare was a component of their sustainability program, the top factors from a provided list were: cattle health (n = 20, 74%), cattle performance (n = 12, 44%), and consumer perceptions (n = 12, 44%). Findings suggest a widespread recognition of animal welfare's importance within sustainable beef production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Edwards-Callaway
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (M.D.); (L.D.); (B.M.)
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Mather JA. The Long Road from Religious and Ethical Traditions to Welfare of Invertebrates. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1005. [PMID: 38612244 PMCID: PMC11010806 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Ethical behaviour tends to lead to the welfare consideration of animals, but much less so for invertebrates. Indigenous tradition often valued all animals as having an important role in life on the planet, a practical application of modern ecology. The Judaeo-Christian-Islamic tradition postulated 'man' as having dominion over all of Earth, resulting in anthropocentrism and careless practices. In contrast, the Buddhist/Hindu belief in rebirth leads to ahisma, or doing no harm. In the face of capitalist systems, practice does not necessarily follow these beliefs, especially in the 'shepherding' of domestic animals. Only Jainist beliefs value the lives of all invertebrates. Philosophers are often divorced from the physiological reality of the animals they muse about, and science's traditions of objectivity and the simplest possible explanation of behaviour led to ignorance of invertebrates' abilities. Ninety-seven percent of animals on the planet are invertebrates. We have a long way to go to provide moral standing and welfare consideration, which is consistent with the new information about the sentience of some of these animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Mather
- Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
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Lipovšek M, Kirbiš A, Tomažič I, Dovč A, Križman M. Farm Animal Welfare during Transport and at the Slaughterhouse: Perceptions of Slaughterhouse Employees, Livestock Drivers, and Veterinarians. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:443. [PMID: 38338086 PMCID: PMC10854723 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal welfare is a multidimensional concept that includes several physical and psychological parameters of the animal. The aim of this study was to assess animal welfare during transportation and in Slovenian beef, pork, and poultry slaughterhouses. A questionnaire was used for this study. Several parameters of animal welfare were rated on a 5-point scale, such as health status, animal behavior, lairage or transport vehicle conditions, and driver regulation compliance. The scale was also used for the second part of the study. This consisted of two studies: (1) self-assessment by slaughterhouse employees and livestock transport drivers and (2) animal welfare observational assessment performed by two veterinarians. The results were compared with each other. Ten large slaughterhouses and nine livestock drivers took part in the survey. The results showed that slaughterhouse employees knew more about animal welfare than livestock truck drivers, but both groups were not sufficiently familiar with animal welfare laws and regulations. This study found that the experts' assessments were generally lower than the self-assessments of employees and livestock drivers. Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that there is a need to improve the awareness and knowledge of slaughterhouse employees and livestock drivers regarding animal handling and animal welfare regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Lipovšek
- Institute for Food Safety, Feed and Environment, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Andrej Kirbiš
- Institute for Food Safety, Feed and Environment, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Iztok Tomažič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Alenka Dovč
- Clinic for Birds, Small Mammals and Reptiles, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Manja Križman
- Institute for Food Safety, Feed and Environment, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.L.); (A.K.)
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Andersson J, Beck-Friis J, Sarenbo S. Legal assessment of ingrown horns and other horn-related anomalies in cattle and sheep. Anim Welf 2024; 33:e4. [PMID: 38487789 PMCID: PMC10936339 DOI: 10.1017/awf.2024.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Cattle and sheep horns have the potential to grow in such a way that the horn bends toward the animal's head and, if left untreated, may penetrate the skin, causing pressure, pain, and suffering. According to the Swedish Animal Welfare Act, animals must be looked after in a way that prevents ingrown horns; otherwise, the person responsible for the animal may be prosecuted. Here, we present a review of 32 legal cases that occurred in Sweden between 2008 and 2022 for which the charge involved horn-related anomalies in cattle or sheep. The aim being to investigate the nature of these horn-related anomalies and the circumstances under which they occur. Of the legal cases, 53% were discovered during official animal welfare control on farms and 44% at an abattoir during pre-slaughter inspection. These include extreme injuries, e.g. both horns penetrating the periosteum into the skull bone, or a horn penetrating into the eye or oral cavity. The reasons offered by the accused for failing to detect animals with horn-related anomalies included that the animal appeared normal, that it was long-haired, shy, or hard to reach, or that the horns had not undergone gradual growth but had accidentally or suddenly penetrated the skin. Overall, 81% of the cases led to convictions; however, none of these resulted in imprisonment. Reasons for acquittals included insufficient crime description or evidence as to how the horn-related anomaly occurred or of the animal being exposed to suffering. A number of recommendations are provided that could help limit the occurrence of ingrown horns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Andersson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Johan Beck-Friis
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Sirkku Sarenbo
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
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Duval E, Lecorps B, von Keyserlingk MAG. Are regulations addressing farm animal welfare issues during live transportation fit for purpose? A multi-country jurisdictional check. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:231072. [PMID: 38269076 PMCID: PMC10805601 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Growing animal welfare concerns have pushed some jurisdictions to strengthen regulations addressing live farm animal transportation, but whether they provide satisfactory levels of protection for animals remains to be shown. Using the recent peer-reviewed literature, we identified four major risk factors associated with live animal transportation (fitness for transport, journey duration, climatic conditions and space allowances) and explored how regulations were structured to prevent animal welfare issues in five English-speaking Western jurisdictions (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the EU and the USA). All legally binding federal regulations were systematically reviewed and compared. Whether these rules were fit for purpose was assessed using the relevant peer-reviewed scientific literature. Our findings indicate the majority of regulations in most jurisdictions are often insufficient or too vague to be deemed fit for purpose. All five jurisdictions fall short in guaranteeing adequate protection to livestock during transport. Using recent changes as well as future policy proposals under discussion, we identify future directions that could form the basis for regulatory changes that may significantly improve the welfare of farm animals during transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugénie Duval
- Essex Law School, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Benjamin Lecorps
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Marina A. G. von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Bukhari SS, McElligott AG, Rosanowski SM, Parkes RS. Recognition of emotion and pain by owners benefits the welfare of donkeys in a challenging working environment. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15747. [PMID: 37576503 PMCID: PMC10416770 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Working donkeys (Equus asinus) support human living standards globally. However, there is little information on the effect of human perceptions of emotion and pain on the welfare of working donkeys. We interviewed donkey owners (n = 332) in Pakistan to determine the relationship between human perspectives on donkey sentience: emotions and the ability to feel pain, and the routine working practices that could impact donkey welfare. The majority of donkey owners used padding under the saddle (n = 211; 63.6%; 95% CI (58.3%-68.9%)) and provided access to food (n = 213; 64.2%; 95% CI (58.9%-69.3%)) and water (n = 195; 58.7%; 95% CI (53.4%-64.1%)) during the working day. Owners reported that at some point in their donkey's life, 65.3% (95% CI (60.2%-70.5%)) had load-associated injuries, of which 27.7% (n = 92; 95% CI (22.8%-32.5%)) were wounds, 20.5% (n = 68; 95% CI (16.1%-24.8%)) were lameness and 7.2% (n = 24; 95% CI 4.4%-10.0%) were back pain. In total, 81.3% (95% CI 77.1%-85.5%; n = 270) of owners believed that their donkeys felt pain, and 70.2% (95% CI (65.2%-75.1%; n = 233) of owners believed that their donkeys had emotions. Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) was used to understand the relationship between owners' recognition of emotions and pain in donkeys and their working practices. The MCA factor map revealed two clusters, named positive and negative clusters. The positive cluster included owner's recognition of donkey pain and emotions, the availability of food and water, use of padding under the saddle, absence of injuries along with the willingness to follow loading guidelines. The negative cluster represented practices that did not benefit donkey welfare, such as using saddles without padding and a lack of food and water during work. The presence of injuries, owners not recognizing that donkeys feel pain and emotion along with an unwillingness to follow loading guidelines were also found in the negative cluster. We show that the owners who recognized sentience in their donkeys were more likely to use practices that are good for donkey welfare. The ability of owners to identify sentience in donkeys, along with their willingness to follow welfare guidelines, are important factors in improving the lives of working donkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed S.U.H. Bukhari
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Alan G. McElligott
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sarah M. Rosanowski
- Digital Agriculture, Grasslands Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Equine Veterinary Consultants (EVC) Limited, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rebecca S.V. Parkes
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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Kamal AHM, Dell CA, Kang T. Recognizing Zooeyia to Promote Companion Animal Welfare in Urban Bangladesh. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091523. [PMID: 37174560 PMCID: PMC10177534 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The One Health concept of zooeyia refers to the benefits of companion animals in human health and is gaining global research attention. This exploratory study aimed to understand contemporary experiences and perceptions of the social benefits and challenges of living with a companion animal in urban Bangladesh. Thirty-five qualitative interviews were conducted with companion animal owners (20), animal sellers (10), and livestock service department officers (5) from two major cities in Bangladesh, Dhaka and Khulna. Thematic analysis found that historically, animals had a utilitarian purpose, such as livestock for food and dogs for security. The role and perceptions of companion animals began to change for some around the turn of the century. Today, companion animal caretakers report social, psychological and physical health benefits from integrating companion animals into their lives. They also report that companion animal ownership can contribute to social problems due to the prevailing stigma against companion animals. This is rooted in the continued utilitarian role attached to companion animals by the majority of the Bangladesh population as well as religious-based non-acceptance. As a result, the Animal Welfare Act (2019) is not well implemented, posing a key concern for companion animal welfare. To tackle this, we propose various ways in which the emerging concept of zooeyia can help promote the welfare of companion animals by challenging the stigma associated with them in Bangladesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu-Hena Mostofa Kamal
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A2, Canada
- Department of Humanities, Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET), Khulna 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Colleen Anne Dell
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A2, Canada
| | - Timothy Kang
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A2, Canada
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Marchant JN, Doyle RE, Hötzel MJ, Iyasere OS, Sinclair M. Editorial: The emergence of animal welfare science and policy in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1171229. [PMID: 37056228 PMCID: PMC10086419 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1171229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy N. Marchant
- United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service, Livestock Behavior Research Unit, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- *Correspondence: Jeremy N. Marchant
| | - Rebecca E. Doyle
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Maria José Hötzel
- Laboratório de Etologia Aplicada e Bem-Estar Animal, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Oluwaseun S. Iyasere
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Albrecht Daniel Thaer-Institut für Agrar- und Gartenbauwissenschaften Tierhaltungssysteme und Ethologie, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michelle Sinclair
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Animal Law and Policy Program, Harvard Law School, Cambridge, MA, United States
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The Rise of Heatstroke as a Method of Depopulating Pigs and Poultry: Implications for the US Veterinary Profession. Animals (Basel) 2022; 13:ani13010140. [PMID: 36611748 PMCID: PMC9817707 DOI: 10.3390/ani13010140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Depopulation of food-producing animals is becoming increasingly common in response to both disease outbreaks and supply chain disruptions. In 2019, the American Veterinary Medical Association released depopulation guidelines classifying certain heatstroke-based killing methods as "permitted in constrained circumstances", when circumstances of the emergency constrain reasonable implementation of "preferred" methods. Since then, tens of millions of birds and pigs have been killed by such methods, termed ventilation shutdown (VSD) Plus Heat and VSD Plus High Temperature and Humidity. While no research using validated measures of animal welfare assessment has been performed on these methods, their pathophysiology suggests that animals are likely to experience pain, anxiety, nausea, and heat distress prior to loss of consciousness. Heatstroke-based methods may result in prolonged suffering and often do not achieve 100% mortality. Potential and available alternative depopulation methods are briefly reviewed. The veterinary profession's ethical obligation to protect animal welfare in the context of depopulations is discussed.
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de Luna MCT, Yang Q, Agus A, Ito S, Idrus Z, Iman RHS, Jattuchai J, Lane E, Nuggehalli J, Hartcher K, Sinclair M. Cage egg producers' perspectives on the adoption of cage-free systems in China, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1038362. [PMID: 36583038 PMCID: PMC9793746 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1038362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Asia is responsible for ~60% of global egg production. As in most of the world, nearly all of the egg-laying hens are housed in cages. While there is growing demand for cage-free eggs in many regions of the world, challenges have been reported when transitioning to these systems, which may affect the willingness of producers to transition. The aim of this research was to investigate the views of Asian egg producers on the feasibility of cage-free systems and what they perceive to be the main challenges and proposed solutions in adopting cage-free systems. A total of 224 egg producers (165 cage egg producers) completed questionnaires containing a mix of free-form, Likert scale and demographic items. Data were analyzed using thematic qualitative analysis and descriptive quantitative statistics. Responses indicated that cages are primarily used for their efficiency and ease of management. The most common reasons to consider adopting cage-free systems included improved animal welfare, increased market access, and increased product quality. A majority of producers (65%) responded "yes" or "maybe" when asked if they consider cage-free systems to be feasible in their country. Perceived challenges in adopting cage-free systems included reduced profitability, higher costs, and biosecurity and disease. Potential solutions included the development of the cage-free industry and market development. Most producers (72%) said more support is needed to establish cage-free farms, mostly pertaining to technical advice, training and resources. The findings of this study provide an enhanced understanding of the egg industry in these countries and potential areas for producer support in transitioning to cage-free systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qing Yang
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom,Global Food Partners, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ali Agus
- Faculty of Animal Science, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Shuichi Ito
- School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Zulkifli Idrus
- Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Seri Kembangan, Malaysia
| | - Rahayu H. S. Iman
- Fakultas Peternakan, Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Jutamart Jattuchai
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Jayasimha Nuggehalli
- Global Food Partners, Singapore, Singapore,NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, India
| | - Kate Hartcher
- Global Food Partners, Singapore, Singapore,School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michelle Sinclair
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia,Animal Law and Policy Program, Harvard Law School, Cambridge, MA, United States,*Correspondence: Michelle Sinclair ;
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Sinclair M, Lee NYP, Hötzel MJ, de Luna MCT, Sharma A, Idris M, Islam MA, Iyasere OS, Navarro G, Ahmed AA, Curry M, Burns GL, Marchant JN. Consumer attitudes towards egg production systems and hen welfare across the world. FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2022.995430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Concurrent with the growth of the human population, global egg production has experienced exponential increase in the last 50 years. This exponential growth has been made possible through the refinement of intensive egg production systems, predominately, conventional cages. The significant amount of liberties conventional cages withhold from hens has also formed the basis of growing challenge to the industry in many countries, with some major regions such as the European Union making sweeping regulatory reform. These reforms were driven by well-organised animal advocacy groups, fuelled by aligning consumer attitudes and behaviours. In the absence of concerted hen welfare advocacy and cage-free movement in much of the rest of the world, it is difficult to know what consumer attitudes and knowledge may exist outside the European Union. This study aimed to contribute to this knowledge by surveying 4,292 members of the public at random across 14 geographically and culturally diverse countries (Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Chile, China, India, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Sudan, Thailand, UK and USA). The findings show that most participants across all countries eat eggs, most state that it matters to them that hens do not suffer in the process of producing the eggs they eat, and importantly, a majority of participants in most countries (except Nigeria) would prefer (to varying degrees) to purchase eggs from hens not kept in cages. Participant knowledge of the dominant system of egg production in their country varied greatly, with frequent uncertainty. This suggests a need for clarity and consistency in communication to consumers during campaigns, in order to mitigate confusion. Most importantly, although these similarities existed across the countries, important regional differences were also present. This underscores the importance of understanding animal and agricultural issues by geopolitical region, and of locally tailoring strategy. The findings of this research will be of strategic use to egg producers and animal welfare advocates alike in understanding and appropriately catering to consumers in the future.
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15
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Nadlučnik E, Golinar Oven I, Tomažič I, Plut J, Dovč A, Štukelj M. Discrepancies between farmers' perceptions and actual animal welfare conditions on commercial pig farms. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1010791. [PMID: 36246308 PMCID: PMC9558291 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1010791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal welfare is a multiparameteral concept that encompasses the physical and mental health of animals and includes various aspects such as physical wellbeing, absence of hunger and thirst, and ability to express motivated behavior, to which farmers usually attach different importance. The objectives of this study were to evaluate animal welfare on Slovenian commercial pig farms, to determine whether farmers' perceived importance of animal welfare differ from actual animal welfare on farms and to determine, if farmer's age, gender, their level of education and participation in vocational training have an influence. For that purpose, we created an Animal Welfare Protocol/Questionnaire for Pig Farms (AWQ/P-P) that assessed several parameters of animal welfare: (1) general status, (2) animal behavior, (3) health status, (4) living conditions, and (5) environmental conditions. Each parameter included at least five observation points and was scored on a 5-point scale. The same observation points were used to measure farmers' perceived importance of animal welfare and for observational assessment. Consequently, we were able to compare both statistically. Farmers from 14 (N = 14) large Slovenian pig farms participated in the study. Results show that farmers rate all parameters of animal welfare very highly. For them, animal health status is the most important, and environmental conditions are the least important factors for animal welfare. Observational inspections yielded significantly lower scores for animal welfare conditions than those obtained from farmer ratings. The highest correlations between farmers' perceptions and observational inspections were found for the parameters of animal behavior and environmental conditions. The results of this study also suggest that vocational training is a significant variable in increasing levels of pig welfare. Age, gender, and education level are not significant variables, however, farms led by older male farmers with lower level of education but involved in vocational training from different sources had slightly better welfare on the farm. This should be further investigated before making conclusions, due to our small sample size. The significance of the study is to identify deficiencies in pig welfare as perceived by farmers and consequently improve pig welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Nadlučnik
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Irena Golinar Oven
- Clinic for Ruminants and Pigs, Clinic for Reproduction and Large Animals, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Iztok Tomažič
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jan Plut
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alenka Dovč
- Clinic for Birds, Small Mammals and Reptiles, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marina Štukelj
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- *Correspondence: Marina Štukelj
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