Optimal Wellbeing of Ageing Wild Animals in Human Care

Book excerpt: Many wild animals in human care live longer than their wild counterparts because of modern care and wellbeing programmes, leading to a growing demographic of ageing animals. This handbook is dedicated to their care. As an innovative expert publication, it integrates all aspects of professional care, including topics such as behaviour, ethics, environmental enrichment, training, veterinary care, nutrition and habitat design. Each animal is unique in their preferences, physical and emotional needs. Ageing animals may change their behaviour, alter the use space, and may also experience events and their relationships with their carers differently than they used to. The ageing process and death of an individual can be a significant event for others in their group, as well as the human carers. This book consolidates best practices for supporting and assessing optimal ageing animal wellbeing. It describes practical and science-informed approaches and philosophies regarding the care of ageing wild animals in zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, universities and laboratories in a single source. This is an invaluable reference for veterinarians, animal care professionals, animal welfare researchers and students, and anyone with an interest in caring for animals. Personal stories and beautiful images of ageing individuals brightening the start of each chapter and remind us that what we do must be in the best interest of the animal and be at the heart of their care.