Animal welfare is the well-being of non-human animals. It refers to the state of the animal; the treatment that an animal receives is covered by other terms such as animal care, animal husbandry, and humane treatment. Protecting an animal's welfare means providing for its physical and mental needs.
Animal welfare science is a relatively new scientific discipline evolving mostly within veterinary medicine over the latter half of the twentieth century into an independent specialty in its own right. The first world level organisation for scientific study of animal welfare was established in 1966 as the society for veterinary ethology affiliated with British veterinary association. The main aim of animal welfare is to provide quality of life to the animals which come with human interference either captivity or wild.
Our appreciation and respect for animals led to their domestication, animal agriculture, animal husbandry and their industrialisation. It sets a mutually beneficial arrangement between people and animals that goes like that- If we take care of animals, the animals will take care of us.
Every animal has their unique place and role in origin of ecosystem/nature for its maintenance that helps contribute to the ecosystem in its own special way. All the human beings on the earth depend on animals for food, entertainment, sports, scientific study research, transport and companionship. The survival of human beings can only be possible by the protection of animals and we have to think and understand the value of their welfare, if we want to live in this planet.
In 1979, the concept of five freedoms came into existence in livestock production sector to ensure any animal kept by a man at least must be protected from unnecessary sufferings.
1. Freedom from hunger and thirst- By ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.
2. Freedom from discomfort- By providing an appropriate environment including shelter and Comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from pain, injury and diseases- By prevention or rapid diagnosis of treatment.
4. Freedom to express normal behaviour- By providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of animals of its own kind
5. Freedom from fear and distress- By ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.
Animal welfare should be at the forefront of every human action involving animals.
World Animal Protection believes animal welfare is affected by the relationships human beings have with animals and It is our duty to ensure all animals are treated humanely, responsibly, and with respect.