Research projects in the field of animal welfare
Research projects in the field of animal welfare
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Animal-Assisted Services and Animal Welfare Animals play a crucial role in many social professions, with positive effects described in both theory and practice. For many years, the University of Gießen has offered scientific training in "Animal-Assisted Services," emphasizing the importance of animal welfare in social interactions with animals from the outset. |
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The practice of using horses for blood collection has been sharply criticized in recent years. In particular, in South America and Iceland, pregnant mares are subjected to the extraction of five to ten liters of blood weekly to obtain the hormone PMSG/eCG (Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin/equine Chorionic Gonadotropin), which is used in pig farming. |
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Animal Welfare
Our focus is on developing innovative concepts and methods to promote animal welfare in medical and veterinary research. Veterinary insights are mapped onto legal provisions to assess animal welfare in accordance with current laws and contextualized within societal and political frameworks. We view animal welfare as a societal concern and consider animal welfare legislation a crucial instrument for advocating for animal interests. Scientific findings from our department on animal husbandry aim to continuously enhance the welfare of animals kept under human care. Based on these insights, we aim to stimulate legislative processes and raise awareness among all stakeholders in (veterinary) research regarding animal welfare.
To achieve these goals, our department conducts research, including studies on the effects of environmental influences on the behavioral development of animals kept in captivity. In particular, we investigate the species-specific requirements that animals have for their environment and how limitations on these requirements impact their behavioral development and adaptability.
The key components of our research include:
Developing scientifically sound foundations for assessing animal welfare issues
Significant progress has been made in recent decades in terms of the development of scientifically based foundations for assessing animal welfare issues. In the advancement of assessment criteria, biological, behavioral, and psychological aspects are considered. Behavioral research plays a central role by providing insights into the specific needs and well-being of animals. Through observation studies, researchers can investigate which environmental conditions and handling practices promote or hinder the welfare of animals. Modern diagnostic methods allow for early detection of changes in animals and targeted treatment.
The integration of various disciplines leads to an evidence-based and holistic assessment of animal welfare issues, supporting the development of effective animal welfare measures.
Development of animal-friendly housing and management practices
At the core of developing animal-friendly housing and management practices is the well-being of animals, based on scientific insights and ethical considerations. Ethology plays a crucial role here as it provides insights into the natural needs and behaviors of animals. Findings from behavioral research contribute, among other things, to the design of species-appropriate accommodations and feeding systems.
Prevention and therapy of behavioral and animal welfare problems
The prevention of and therapy for behavioral and animal welfare problems aim to promote animal well-being and minimize suffering. Preventive and therapeutic approaches are closely intertwined and based on scientific insights to ensure the welfare of animals and effectively address behavioral and animal welfare issues. Preventive measures include creating species-appropriate housing conditions that meet the specific needs of animals. Behavior problems caused by housing conditions can be mitigated through early detection and intervention. Therapy for behavioral problems typically involves a combination of environmental adjustments, behavior training, and medical treatment.