Methods to assess the welfare of domestic animals

Abstract

The protection of animals is becoming a major social concern. Hence, it is now necessary to have means to assess the welfare of animals. Although welfare is a matter of feelings (the question is : does an animal perceive a situation as positive or aversive?), we can measure it objectively. Several types of measurements exist. First, principles of ergonomics can be used ; the animal is then considered as an actor having to perform tasks in a given environment. This will bring information on the needs of the animals. Second, the preferences of the animals can be measured via their choices among different possibilities. These preferences represent the ‘point of view’ of an animal. Third, situations imposed on animals can be compared on the basis of health, productivity, physiological and behavioural responses to stress to assess the discomfort perceived by animals.