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Animal welfare is the number one priority for veterinary nurses and a thorough understanding of the factors which influence welfare and an ability to recognise indicators in animals is essential. The module explores both positive and negative welfare states and examines how physical, behavioural and emotional factors impact on quality of life. Welfare frameworks such as the Five Welfare Needs and Five Freedoms are debated. This module introduces a number of scientific methods for the assessment of animal welfare and the value of physiological responses and changes in behaviour as indicators of overall welfare are explored. A range of welfare assessment methods are applied to a class research project which involves gathering, analysing and presenting data. This provides an introduction to research skills which are required in the Honours project the following year and may prepare for study at higher levels in this developing field. Animal Welfare Science is a rapidly emerging area of research and is increasingly informing and influencing legislation and policy worldwide. The knowledge and skills obtained from this module will also enhance the quality of work in veterinary practice.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to
LO1: Analyse the factors which influence quality of life and relate these to physiological and behavioural indicators of welfare
LO2: Evaluate objective methods by which animal welfare may be assessed
LO3: Demonstrate how scientific assessment of animal welfare can be applied in practical situations
LO4: Collect, analyse and present data derived from personal research in the context of previously published literature