Focus on animal welfare.

Abstract

In October 2001, the Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre hosted its inaugural annual lecture in animal welfare. Dr. Mike Appleby, Vice President for Farm Animals and Sustainable Agriculture, Humane Society of the United States, spoke on the topic “What should we do about animal welfare?” (1). He concluded by saying, “But I can still give the single, one-word answer to the question, ‘What should we do about animal welfare?’ The answer, ladies and gentlemen, is ‘More’.” This and subsequent articles on animal welfare are a response to this challenge. They are intended to prompt discussion about the veterinary practitioner's role in animal welfare, to educate readers about animal welfare science, and to offer suggestions for promoting animal welfare in practice.