Description
AWF has awarded funding to four student research projects that address critical animal welfare topics, from investigating extreme conformation in alpacas to exploring the relationship between biodiversity and welfare and investigating the cross-species emotional contagion. More information below:
Are alpacas becoming brachycephalic? Determining the trend towards a brachycephalic phenotype within the UK Alpaca industry and its implications.
Phillippa Hampson - University of Bristol
This student research project addresses concerns raised by veterinarians about potential health issues (including vitamin D deficiency and breathing problems) related to the physical features of alpacas, specifically the shape of their faces. It aims to determine if UK alpacas are developing shorter noses and more facial fleece coverage due to selective breeding practices; assess the health impact of these physical changes and use the findings to guide breeding practices, veterinary care, and overall management of alpacas to ensure their welfare.
Investigation into the pathological findings in horses submitted for post-mortem examination with a history of suspected starvation
Julia Coltart - University of Liverpool
This research project aims to analyse case reports of suspected equine starvation to identify common factors and create a reference publication for forensic veterinary pathologists, providing clear guidelines for diagnosing starvation in horses, and helping to distinguish it from other causes of poor body condition. With most veterinary pathologists feeling underprepared for forensic cases, these guidelines will serve as a critical educational resource, improving their ability to handle such cases effectively and prevent wrongful convictions or the dismissal of legitimate cases of animal cruelty.
Exploring the Relationship between Habitat Biodiversity and Donkey Welfare: A Case Study in Scotland and the North of England
Skye Kenny - Edinburgh Napier University
This research project investigates the impact of current pasture management practices on the welfare of UK donkeys. By comparing donkey welfare indicators with habitat biodiversity indicators, the study seeks to determine if higher biodiversity in pastures results in lower rates of obesity and overall better welfare for donkeys, aligning with their evolutionary adaptations.
The aim is to produce recommendations for creating and maintaining biodiverse pastures that meet the donkeys' nutritional and behavioural needs.
Investigating the cross-species emotional contagion
Chloe Crichton-Feddo - University of Bristol
This project seeks to determine whether a laboratory rat’s experience of being handled by a human is influenced by the emotional state of the handler. Ultrasonic vocalisations emitted by the rats will be used as a simple, graded indicator of their emotional experience. The aim of this research is to increase knowledge of human-rat interaction and how the emotions of the handler can impact those of the rat being handled. This will inform refinement of handling methods to improve the welfare of rats in laboratory settings.
More information about Chloe's project
