Welfare Science

Animal Welfare: The Continuing Journey

A final reflection on the journey of animal welfare science and advocacy, the animals that inspire this work, and the commitment required to continue.

Key Facts

Animal welfare as a scientific discipline emerged in the 1960s and has transformed our understanding of animal experience
The moral circle of human concern has expanded to include more species and more aspects of animal experience over time
Every generation of welfare scientists, advocates, and caring animal keepers has contributed to cumulative progress
The animals who cannot speak for themselves depend on the humans who choose to listen and act

Welfare Considerations

The journey toward a world with less animal suffering is long, imperfect, and requires the contributions of many people across many disciplines and roles. Science, advocacy, policy, farming, veterinary practice, and consumer choice all matter. The animals we care for and about deserve our best, most committed, most evidence-informed efforts. This is the continuing journey.

What You Can Do

Find your most effective contribution to animal welfare and pursue it with sustained commitment
Stay connected to the animals who inspire this work - learn about them, observe them, care for them
Share what you know and care about with others, and welcome all who are moved to join this journey