Animal Welfare

Animal welfare refers to the well-being of non-human animals, emphasizing their physical and mental health, living conditions, and overall quality of life. It encompasses how animals are treated, including their care, housing, behavior, and the avoidance of suffering. The concept promotes humane treatment and strives to ensure that animals are free from unnecessary pain, distress, and suffering. Animal welfare is often informed by scientific knowledge about animal behavior and needs, guiding practices in agriculture, research, companionship, and conservation. Advocacy for animal welfare focuses on improving living conditions and treatment standards for animals in various settings, including farms, laboratories, zoos, and as pets. The term is often associated with ethical considerations regarding human responsibilities toward animals and efforts to enact laws and policies that protect their rights and welfare.