Description

AWF is delighted to announce the funding of two research projects under the topic: “Breeding for better welfare: enabling human behaviour that leads to animals experiencing a better life” considering the human element in animal care, at the heart of the ‘One Welfare’ concept. This concept recognises the interconnectedness between humans and animals and suggests that by improving mental health, we can ensure better animal welfare practices.

Breeding animals for resilient feet: On-farm decision-making and the role of culling in sheep lameness management and breeding strategies

­Investigators: Beth Clark vet and Niamh Mahon

Grant amount: £14,908

Link:https://www.animalwelfarefoundation.org.uk/grant/breeding-animals-for-resilient-feet-on-farm-decision-making-and-the-role-of-culling-in-sheep-lameness-management-and-breeding-strategies/

Findings will provide in-depth insights into the challenges associated with culling to manage lameness and the barriers and facilitators to implementing changes on-farm.

Increased culling of neonatal piglets: investigating the impact of super-prolific breeding programmes on human health and associations with animal care

­Investigator: Emma Baxter

Grant amount: £9,999

Link: https://www.animalwelfarefoundation.org.uk/grant/increased-culling-of-neonatal-piglets-investigating-the-impact-of-super-prolific-breeding-programmes-on-human-health-and-associations-with-animal-care/

This research investigates the impact of culling surplus neonatal piglets on the mental health and well-being of stockworkers and how this relates to animal care.

Both AWF-funded projects have started and are expected to finish in February/March 2025.