Welfare Science

Animal Welfare and Food Poverty

Food poverty creates welfare challenges for companion animals owned by people in financial hardship, while also influencing the accessibility of higher welfare animal products for lower-income consumers.

Key Facts

Pet food bank networks in UK have expanded significantly to support animals of people in poverty
Relinquishment of pets due to financial hardship causes welfare suffering to both animal and owner
Higher welfare animal products typically cost more, limiting access for lower-income consumers
Food security programmes that promote animal products may entrench intensive production
Community veterinary schemes support animal welfare for owners in financial difficulty

Welfare Considerations

Food poverty and animal welfare intersect in complex ways. Supporting pet food banks and community veterinary services helps animals owned by people in poverty. Policy that improves food system welfare must address equity implications to ensure higher welfare food is accessible across income levels.

What You Can Do

Support pet food bank networks and community veterinary programmes in your area
Advocate for food system welfare reform that considers affordability and equity
Engage with food poverty organisations about companion animal welfare dimensions