Animal Welfare Science Communication

Effective communication of animal welfare science to the public, policymakers, and industry requires specific skills and strategies that differ from standard academic communication.

Key Facts

Research on science communication shows that facts alone rarely change attitudes or behaviours
Narrative and emotional engagement increase the effectiveness of welfare science communication
Social media has created new channels for animal welfare communication with complex effects on public attitudes
Confirmation bias means welfare communications are more effective when they align with existing values rather than challenging them
Academic animal welfare researchers receive minimal training in public communication despite its importance
Organisations including Faunalytics provide evidence-based guidance on effective animal welfare advocacy communication

Welfare Considerations

The gap between animal welfare science and public behaviour change is substantially a communication challenge. Welfare scientists who develop effective communication skills, or who partner with skilled communicators, have substantially greater impact than those who rely solely on academic publication. Investing in science communication capacity within welfare organisations and research institutions is a high-leverage welfare strategy.

What You Can Do

Support organisations like Faunalytics that research effective animal welfare communication
Share animal welfare information using narrative and personal story framing where appropriate
Engage with science communication training if you work in animal welfare research or advocacy
Support media coverage of animal welfare science that is accurate and accessible
Advocate for science communication training to be included in veterinary and animal science curricula