Five freedoms for animals
RSPCA Australia considers that the welfare of an animal
includes its physical and mental state and that good animal
welfare implies both fitness and a sense of well-being.
The RSPCA believes that an animal’s welfare should be
considered in terms of five freedoms which form a logical and
comprehensive framework for analysis of welfare within any
animal use together with the steps and compromises necessary to
safeguard and improve welfare within the proper constraints of
an effective livestock industry.
| 1 |
Freedom from hunger and
thirst: by ready access to fresh water and a diet to
maintain full health and vigour. |
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| 2 |
Freedom from discomfort:
by providing an appropriate environment including
shelter and a comfortable resting area. |
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| 3 |
Freedom from pain,
injury or disease: by prevention through rapid
diagnosis and treatment. |
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| 4 |
Freedom to express
normal behaviour: by providing sufficient space,
proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind. |
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Freedom from fear and
distress: by ensuring conditions and treatment which
avoid mental suffering. |
RSPCA Australia considers that these freedoms will be better
provided for if those who have care of livestock practise:
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caring and responsible
planning and management |
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skilled, knowledgeable and
conscientious animal management |
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appropriate environmental
design |
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considerate handling and
transport |
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humane killing. |
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Policies Introduction
