Balancing the animal welfare, farm profitability, human health and environmental outcomes of sheep ectoparasite control in Scottish flocks

Abstract

Controlling external parasites of sheep provides benefits for both animal welfare losses and productivity. However, as control is highly dependent upon the use of veterinary medicines, many of which have potential undesirable side effects for human health and/or the environment, control decisions require the balancing of expected benefits with potential costs. In this paper the decision problem is examined holistically. The method used is a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) in which different weights can be applied to each criterion that affects the decision. This enables an exploration of how changing priorities can influence the ‘best’ course of action. A Scottish context is used though the issues discussed are not unique to Scotland or to the production of sheep. The results highlight the need for a wider thinking and debate on how to identify and agree acceptable solutions to production decisions where undesirable side effects are unavoidable. In addition, the holistic approach provides insights that could be used to identify research priorities and areas where new technological solutions could be particularly valuable.