Animal Welfare Concerns of Farm-Based Education Programs

Abstract

Abstract The integrating of farm animals with educational and therapeutic settings continues to expand, with Farm-animal-assisted interventions (AAI) being a method specifically designed to assist individuals, particularly children, who are dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction. Farm-based education includes standards-based curriculum such as agriculture, biology, ecology, nutrition, and science. AAI and education sessions may occur on-site (farm) or off-site (school, hospital, or residential treatment facility). This study delves into the benefits that farm-based activities can bring to children, while shedding light on the potential welfare implications for the animals involved. Research supports that individuals of diverse ages and capabilities may experience positive outcomes from engaging in repetitive, structured interventions with farm animals. What remains unclear is the impact of these interventions on the well-being of the farm animals themselves. Understanding and prioritizing animal welfare is of paramount importance when considering farm-based AAI. If we define welfare as how well an animal copes with its living conditions, we must ensure that animals are healthy, comfortable, well-nourished, safe and can express innate behavior, and are free from pain, fear, frustration, and distress. Another key area of animal welfare is how an animal responds to stress, which may occur when an animal is removed from its environment and required to interact with novel objects or unfamiliar individuals. Information © The Author 2023