Animal Welfare

Book excerpt: Concern for animal welfare has recently increased and continues to increase in many countries. The topic is now an established part of the curriculum for students of agriculture and veterinary medicine, among others. This book is a response to this growing interest and the need for consolidated literature on the subject. It brings together diverse approaches to the subject, from philosophy through scientific study and measurement, to the implementation of practical solutions to real problems. The contents combine selected readings with critical commentaries from experts in different fields. Thus most chapters are reviews built around key sources, rather than articles with references in support. While more information is available on farm animals than on other groups, the principles are equally applicable to all animals. Written by leading authors from Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand, the book is aimed at a wide readership, including students, research workers and interested professional and lay people in animal science, veterinary medicine, applied zoology and psychology.