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Six questions for veterinarians
In animal welfare there are a number of needs, concerns and constituencies. Veterinarians are expected to understand not only the needs of animals, but the multiplicity of concerns that individuals and societies present. Veterinarians are asked to contribute to a wide range of determinations that are sometimes deterministic but invariably dialogic. One model which we use in training is the following six questions.
1: How did we achieve the present norms? The definitions of normative treatment of animals vary by time and society. Understanding historical arcs and sociologic drivers of norms needs better definition, especially as we involve ourselves in processes that change those norms.
2: How anthropocentric are these norms? The norms on allocation of resources to animals can be broadly divided by the relationship to humans. There are those animals that are companions (pets), those animals that are farmed (livestock), those animals that are part of an accepted ecosystem (wildlife), and those that are considered to be detrimental (pests).
3: How do we discriminate levels of consciousness? Our determinations of what an animal feels needs a combination of knowledge, observation, anthropomorphism and conjecture. This is first in terms of immediate responses to an observed stimulant such as pain of an injection or the fear of a predator. But it is also in terms of longer-term expectations of an animal that can result in prolonged changes in responses and outlook.
4: How does the behavior of animals indicate welfare? The examination of behaviors of animals has been used both in clinical settings as well as research settings to determine the needs of animals and the prioritization of allocation of resources. The strengths of these associations vary widely in level and causal pathways.
5: How does the physical state of animals indicate welfare? The physical proxies of welfare are often more easily measured than the behavioral proxies, especially through the extensive training that veterinarians receive. Yet these physical indicators require the same level of analysis of strengths of association as do behavioral indicators, both independently and in combination.
6: How do the natures and instincts of animals indicate welfare? The functional relationship between natures and instincts and welfare is less studied than behavioral or physical states, especially when evaluated independently of behavior and physical indicators. Strengths of association are more difficult to determine, and yet it is a major concern of many involved in the care of animals.
Keywords: Veterinary Welfare