Welfare Science

Animal Welfare in Veterinary Education: Curriculum Reform

Veterinary education is incorporating welfare science more systematically, but significant gaps remain in how welfare is taught and assessed.

Key Facts

The Five Domains model is now incorporated into many veterinary school curricula
Welfare assessment skills are increasingly examined in veterinary licensing
Mental health of veterinary students is strongly linked to welfare in clinical training
Communication skills for welfare conversations with clients are an emerging curricular focus

Welfare Considerations

Veterinarians are the most influential welfare advocates in their client communities. Education that develops both technical welfare skills and communication competence multiplies their impact. Student welfare during training is also a significant concern.

What You Can Do

Support veterinary schools that are leaders in welfare education
Advocate for welfare science to be examined in veterinary licensing assessments
Engage with veterinary professional bodies developing welfare education standards