The Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare

Why are so many animals still suffering? We, as a society, have come a long way in improving animal welfare, animal care, animal laws and animal protection and yet we still have over 45,000 cases/year of animal cruelty.

Animal abuse and neglect happens in our community too frequent to count. The Central Alberta Humane Society, Alberta SPCA, Alberta Animal Services, registered rescues and local veterinarians are the people who see the pain and suffering first hand. This ranges from willful abuse to basic neglect. We need to stand together and help the animals that cannot help themselves; we are the advocates and voices for the innocent animals.

The Five Animal Freedoms are the basic guidelines for Animal Welfare. During the Animal Health Week Oct 1-7, we will be educating, promoting and supporting the rights of animals. Below are the Five Freedoms that all animals, regardless of size or shape and fur or feathers must have in order to live a life of happiness and peace.

1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst- by having access to fresh water and a diet to maintain health and vigour.

2. Freedom from Discomfort – by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.

3. Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease – by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment by a veterinarian.

4. Freedom to Express Normal Behavior – by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind.

5. Freedom from Fear and Distress – by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.

Join Lomsnes Veterinary Hospital in the first week of October to support animal rights and let’s all be a voice for those who can’t speak.

Written by Dr Lisa Lomsnes