“Knowing and protecting the rights of animals is an important aspect of a modern and humane society. However, are we always aware of all the needs of pets? According to the research conducted by Gradus Research together with Royal Canin, a large part of Ukrainians – 62% – do not know about the concept of “5 animal freedoms”. It is the basis for ensuring proper care, protection of health and well-being of our people”, — write on: ua.news
Knowing and protecting the rights of animals is an important aspect of a modern and humane society. However, are we always aware of all the needs of pets? According to the research conducted by Gradus Research together with Royal Canin, a large part of Ukrainians – 62% – do not know about the concept of “5 animal freedoms”. It is the basis for ensuring proper care, protection of health and well-being of our pets. Undoubtedly, awareness of this concept can have a positive effect on the formation of a harmonious relationship between man and animal, where the physical and emotional needs of four-legged friends are taken into account and satisfied.
Five freedoms: the concept of pet welfare
The World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) defines animal welfare as 5 freedoms.
The legislation of many countries regarding the protection of animals, including Ukraine, is largely correlated with the concept of the five freedoms. For example, the Law of Ukraine “On the Protection of Animals from Cruelty” establishes fairly high principles and standards of animal care, which generally correspond to this concept.
In particular, it provides for respect for the following 5 freedoms:
- Freedom from hunger and thirst: free access to drinking water and feed to maintain health and provide energy;
- Freedom from discomfort: creating a safe environment, including providing a place to live, sleep and rest;
- Freedom from injury, pain or disease: timely provision of veterinary care, prevention and diagnosis of diseases;
- Freedom of expression of natural behavior: the presence of a sufficient and properly equipped environment and the possibility of communication with animals of the same species;
- Freedom from fear and suffering: creation of proper living conditions, careful handling and care so that the animal does not experience psychological suffering.
“Responsible treatment of animals is not an obligation that lasts throughout the pet’s life. It’s about knowing, understanding and providing for an animal’s needs and creating an environment in which it can live a healthy and happy life. Neglecting the needs of animals can negatively affect their welfare and in some cases lead to physical and emotional suffering. The decision to get a pet is a serious step that requires a responsible approach and an understanding of the pet’s needs, which are outlined in the concept of the five freedoms.”– says Oleksandr Aishpurdoctor of veterinary medicine, expert in scientific communication of Royal Canin.
Caring for a pet requires a careful and systematic approach, Oleksandr notes. According to him, attention to detail is the key to his happy and healthy life. He also shared several practical tips that will help implement the principles of “5 animal freedoms” in everyday life:
- Provide access to clean drinking water: it is worth placing several bowls of water around the house and periodically renewing it. It is important that water is always fresh and available for your pet;
- Take care of a balanced diet: monitor your pet’s diet. Each animal has unique nutritional needs, and an appropriate diet is the basis of health and longevity. Consult your veterinarian regarding the optimal diet for your pet, taking into account the pet’s age, activity level, individual needs and physiological characteristics;
- Visit a veterinarian: do not neglect preventive visits to the veterinary clinic. This will help prevent diseases in the future and detect any health problems of the pet in time.
- Stimulate physical activity: provide your pet with a sufficient amount of physical activity. Play and walk with him, because it is joint activities that form a strong bond between you and socialize the animal.
- Create a cozy environment: organize a rest area and a comfortable place for your pet to sleep. It is important that the animal has its own space where it can rest and recover.
There is a very tight the connection between the level of knowledge about animals and the quality of their life, because a lack of knowledge in care can lead to careless treatment. Raising awareness and actively implementing the principles of animal welfare is the key to creating a better world for our four-legged wards.
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