Editorial: Animal welfare in extensive systems.

Abstract

Extensive livestock production is vital for many reasons in different continents. This 25 aspect is discussed by Windsor https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2021.674482 in a review 26 on the Australian reality, but with a clear message for other countries. This review 27 emphasises the need for continuing improvements in animal welfare to ensure social 28 acceptance of animal-sourced food and fibre, a pertinent issue in a social context of 29 strong opposition towards animal production. In addition, the need for sustainability of 30 animal production is also highlighted in how it impacts the Australian economy. Severe 38 Likewise, practices that will allow for the adaptation or that will help mitigate the well as the health and welfare issues of donkeys in Northeastern China. In this work, it 48 is pointed out that forty per cent of the donkeys were reported to suffer from at least one 49 health problem and that the most common problems were colics, respiratory disorders 50 and skin conditions. It also indicates that owners underestimate some of the most 51 prevalent diseases in donkeys, which suggests that there is still room for improvement 52 in health management, ensuring better welfare of donkeys in those regions. In summary, the collection of these papers will contribute to increase the knowledge 90 regarding the welfare of animals kept in more natural settings.