How can farmers improve animal welfare on their farms?

Improving animal welfare on farms is essential for the health and productivity of the livestock, as well as for ethical considerations. Offering enrichment and humane treatment is a key factor in enhancing the welfare of animals. Enrichment involves providing animals with environment stimuli that fulfill their physical, mental, and social needs. This can include access to outdoor spaces, variety in diet, social interaction with other animals, and opportunities for natural behaviors such as grazing, burrowing, or playing. Humane treatment is also crucial, as it emphasizes the importance of handling animals gently, providing proper veterinary care, and ensuring that animals are free from unnecessary stress and pain.

These practices not only support the ethical treatment of animals but can also lead to better health outcomes, improved productivity, and even enhanced product quality. In contrast, neglecting animal behavior, providing less space, or prioritizing profit at all costs may lead to severe welfare issues, stress, and lower productivity. Hence, focusing on humane treatment and environmental enrichment represents a comprehensive approach to enhancing animal welfare on farms.