The School of Veterinary Medicine at UC Davis has formed a new division, the International Animal Welfare Training Institute, to examine and address animal welfare issues in many species.
Faculty at the Veterinary School met with members of the beef and dairy industries to develop practices that will benefit the welfare of food animals. The group discussed the animal welfare concerns of consumers and farmers alike, including science-based welfare practices.
Participants discussed the need for more science-based information to determine the most effective way to improve animal welfare in livestock. They outlined several existing programs and potential research projects:
- Measurement of animal stress and pain
- Length of time of animal transport and transport conditions
- Optimal training methods for producers and animal handlers
- Bridging gaps in implementation of welfare strategies
- On-farm assessments and welfare audits
- Providing the most humane end of life for agricultural animals, appropriate techniques, and training in methods approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Costs of welfare practices
- Roles of producers, animal health technicians and employees
- Demonstrating and communicating welfare successes
- Tapping outreach opportunities–for example, at auction sites
The faculty are identifying animal welfare concerns, research opportunities and needs, and seeking support from the public to implement science-based improvements. The institute also serves to train and educate students, community members, and government representatives in disaster planning and emergency response for animals.