RSPCA Animal Welfare Science Update…
This Special Edition of the Science Update showcases contemporary research relating to the effects of climate change on the welfare of companion animals, farm animals, animals used in sport and wild animals. It includes research presented at the RSPCA Australia Animal Welfare Seminar 2022 ‘Animal Welfare in a Changing Climate’.
Climate change is a significant animal welfare issue. It impacts animals on land and at sea. It drives more frequent and severe disasters, such as floods, heatwaves, droughts and bushfires. It causes animal suffering and death. Urgent action is required to address climate change and prevent animal suffering.
Climate change has severe animal welfare consequences yet animal welfare has rarely been considered in climate change research, policies and programs. The focus has largely related to conservation including impacts on species, populations and ecosystems, rather than the impact on animal welfare. It is critical to better understand the impact of climate change on animal welfare in order to protect animals in a changing climate.