Farm Animals

Poultry Welfare: Improving Dust Bath Substrate

Dust bath substrate quality significantly affects the welfare benefit of dust bathing for laying hens and other poultry.

Key Facts

Scientific evidence guides best practice in this welfare area
Welfare improvements are achievable at reasonable cost
Public awareness and consumer choice drive positive welfare change
Every informed person strengthens the animal welfare movement

Welfare Considerations

Hens strongly prefer specific substrates for dust bathing including dry sand, peat, and fine wood shavings. Providing appropriate substrate quality, not just any loose material, maximises the welfare benefit of dust bathing provision.

What You Can Do

Learn more about this welfare topic from scientific sources
Support organisations working on this welfare issue
Make informed choices that support better welfare outcomes
Share knowledge about animal welfare with others