A global network of research institutions advances the scientific understanding of animal welfare, translating findings into policy and practice improvements.
The quality of welfare science directly determines the quality of welfare standards and policy. Research institutions that develop validated welfare indicators, test enrichment interventions, and establish the evidence base for regulatory decisions are critical infrastructure for animal welfare improvement. Funding for welfare science is often inadequate relative to the scale of animal use and the potential for welfare improvement. Supporting research institutions is an investment in evidence-based welfare advocacy.