Thursday, May 25, 2017

Animal welfare goes global

Members of the World Organisation on Animal Health (OIE) have adopted a global strategy on animal welfare.

It began during the fourth OIE Global Conference on Animal Welfare last December in Guadalajara, Mexico, and was adopted this week, says the OIE on its website.

The strategy aims to achieve “a world where the welfare of animals is respected, promoted and advanced, in ways that complement the pursuit of animal health, human well-being, 
socio-economic development and environmental sustainability.”

The strategy has four elements:

Development of international animal welfare standards. They will involve leading researchers, “relevant scientific research’ and take into account ethics and practical experience. Pigs and the harvesting of reptiles for their skins will be a high priority

Enhancement of capacity building and training of veterinary services.

Communication with governments, national and international organisations, and the public to raise awareness on animal welfare. “Member countries are therefore highly encouraged to support the development of national programs for raising awareness of animal welfare and educating key players, particularly livestock owners, animal handlers, religious and community leaders and other key groups, such as school students.”

Progressive implementation of OIE standards on animal welfare and their corresponding policies. “Member countries are urged to integrate OIE standards into their national legislations."