Assessment of Animal Welfare

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Abstract

The welfare of animals is a matter of widespread concern in Australia and overseas. It has become quite clear that we now directly or indirectly influence the quality of life of very many animals. This subject on the rapidly developing science of animal welfare provides the skills necessary to assess and interpret adverse and positive effects on animal welfare. This subject will also extend the students' proficiency with the scientific process through undertaking an applied animal behaviour research project, and develop students' ability to assess welfare in a range of settings. Effective communication is essential for those involved in animal welfare, and in this subject students will develop oral and written communication skills on controversial and emotive issues of animal use and production.

Syllabus

The scientific method and how to study behaviour scientifically;Established and emerging indicators of welfare; animal affective states, physiology, behaviour, qualitative indices, positive welfare and abnormal behaviour;The effect of social factors and ethical perspectives on the approach to animal welfare assessment; andApplying principles of animal welfare science to improve the welfare … For more content click the Read More button below.

The scientific method and how to study behaviour scientifically;
Established and emerging indicators of welfare; animal affective states, physiology, behaviour, qualitative indices, positive welfare and abnormal behaviour;
The effect of social factors and ethical perspectives on the approach to animal welfare assessment; and
Applying principles of animal welfare science to improve the welfare of animals in the real world; development of standards, policies and quality assurance schemes.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to assess animal welfare using contemporary assessment models;

be able to identify the strengths and weaknesses of current and emerging methods to assess animal welfare;

be able to design, conduct, interpret and present applied animal behaviour research;

be able to examine how social factors that shape our viewpoint on animal ethics influence our approach to the assessment of animal welfare;

be able to appraise how animal welfare science is used to develop standards, policies and auditing systems to safeguard animal welfare on farms; and

be able to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally, on a controversial and emotionally-charged topic.

Enrolment restrictions

Bachelor of Animal Science (Honours) Integrated Honours

Other students with the permission of their Course Director and the Subject Coordinator.