The Pros And Cons Of Animal Welfare

In addition to the various religious, ethical and philosophical bases for animal welfare, there is increasing recognition of the ties between animal welfare indicators and animal health. Disregard for animal welfare often leads to poor animal health – increased susceptibility of animal populations to disease and injury and poor quality or contaminated animal-based food products – with resulting economic losses. Animal welfare is thus related to other government concerns such as public health, food safety and long-term economic development. Because food animals are important to human welfare – as a source of nutrition and income – concern for animal welfare is inextricable from concern for human needs. This is particularly the case in countries with developing economies, where current and expected population increases are putting pressure on food security and economic growth Increased food animal production is often a necessary part of attaining both goals. In newly industrialized countries, a growing middle class means increasing domestic demand for meat and animal by-products, even where these may cost more due to compliance with animal welfare standards. The key challenge is to find ways to increase food animal production while simultaneously improving or ensuring good animal welfare and protecting food security. To improve legislative frameworks, some countries use or adapt pre-existing legislation on the prevention of cruelty to animals, while others draft new animal