Description
On Thursday, 14th November, the AWF hosted an engaging and thought-provoking session at the London Vet Show, exploring the impacts of confinement systems on animal welfare while addressing broader societal, environmental, and economic considerations. Key Takeaways: Understanding animal welfare: Julia Wrathall, applied animal welfare scientist and independent animal welfare consultant, highlighted the importance of welfare assessment methods, such as the five domains model, and the need for validated indicators of both negative and positive welfare. She also discussed the limitations of current legislation in fully protecting animals and the role of incentive schemes like the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway. Confinement vs. extensive systems: the panel underscored the welfare issues associated with restrictive space, including physical health problems and limited expression of natural behaviour, while highlighting the benefits of more extensive systems, such as improved enrichment and lower disease spread. Farrowing crates debate: Toby Allcock, Chair - Pig Veterinary Society Welfare Sub-Group, explored alternatives to farrowing crates, highlighting ongoing research into sow behavior and the need to balance sow and piglet welfare. Studies suggest flexible farrowing systems show promise, though evidence gaps remain. The role of technology and innovation: Mike Clark, Clinical Associate Professor of Poultry Medicine & Agribusiness - School of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, University of Nottingham, emphasized the need for a holistic approach to farming, integrating consumer demands for affordable food with enhanced welfare and productivity. Larger flock sizes do not inherently compromise welfare, and emerging technologies offer significant potential. Ethics and evidence gaps: The session reinforced the ethical responsibility towards farmed animals, advocating for precautionary principles when evidence is limited, and balancing human, environmental, and animal welfare priorities.