Welfare Science

Livestock Welfare in Conflict Zones

The devastating impacts of armed conflict on farm animal welfare and what can be done.

Key Facts

Armed conflict disrupts feed supply chains, veterinary access, and stockperson care for livestock
Animals in conflict zones face starvation, dehydration, injury, and abandonment
Humanitarian organisations increasingly recognise livestock welfare as linked to food security and human welfare
Remote welfare assessment tools can help identify at-risk populations even during active conflict

Welfare Considerations

Livestock in conflict zones suffer extreme welfare deprivation that is inseparable from the humanitarian crisis affecting their keepers. Integrating animal welfare into humanitarian response frameworks improves outcomes for both animals and the communities that depend on them.

What You Can Do

Support organisations like SPANA and Vets Without Borders working in conflict zones
Advocate for animal welfare to be included in humanitarian response planning
Donate to emergency veterinary relief funds for conflict-affected regions