Search Results (537)

Behavioral issues in domestic dogs represent a significant welfare concern affecting both canines and their caregivers, with prevalence rates reported to range from 34 to 86% across the population. Current treatment options, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine, often present limitations including adverse effects and delayed efficacy. This randomized, placebo-controlled (maltodextrin) study investigated the effects of a novel Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain (LP815^TM) on canine behavioral concerns through gut–brain axis modulation. Home-based dogs (n = 40) received either LP815^TM (n = 28) or placebo (n = 12) daily for 4 weeks, with behavioral changes assessed using the comprehensive Canine Behavioral Assessment & Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ) and continuous activity monitoring. After the intervention period, dogs receiving LP815^TM showed significant improvements in aggression (p = 0.0047) and anxiety (p = 0.0005) compared to placebo controls. These findings were corroborated by objective activity data, which demonstrated faster post-departure settling, reduced daytime sleep, and improved sleep consistency in the treatment group. Throughout >1120 administered doses, no significant adverse events were reported, contrasting favorably with pharmaceutical alternatives. The concordance between our findings and previous research using different L. plantarum strains suggests a consistent biological mechanism, potentially involving GABA production and vagal nerve stimulation. These results indicate that LP815^TM represents a promising, safe alternative for addressing common canine behavioral concerns with potential implications for improving both canine welfare and the human–animal bond. Full article

Research on human–animal relationships suggests that close bonds with animals can enhance empathy, reduce speciesism, and improve human physical and psychological health. This study investigated whether pet ownership—particularly attachment to a companion animal during childhood—is associated with differences in moral concerns toward all animals in adulthood. It also aimed to explore the potential effects of empathy and speciesism on overall moral concerns toward animals. Using self-report questionnaires among 72 participants recruited online, the analyses revealed a significant effect of animal categories on moral concerns, F(1, 1.98) = 59.37, p < 0.001. Mean moral concern scores were significantly higher for companion animals (M = 6.04, SD = 1.15) than for food animals (M = 4.90, SD = 1.44), unappealing wild animals (M = 4.20, SD = 1.87), and appealing wild animals (M = 5.73, SD = 1.32), p < 0.05. Additionally, childhood pet owners reported greater moral concerns for all animals, F(1, 1.98) = 4.87, η² = 0.065, p < 0.05. Attachment to a companion animal in childhood was positively correlated with moral concerns for all animal categories. Finally, although attachment and empathy were both positively related to moral concern, only attachment was a significant predictor (p < 0.05). Further research is needed to understand the psychological mechanisms influencing views on animal rights and welfare. Full article

Ensuring sustainable food systems is an urgent global priority as populations grow and environmental pressures mount. Technological innovations such as genetic engineering (GE) and nanotechnology (nano) have been promoted as promising pathways for achieving greater sustainability in agriculture and food production. Yet, the sustainability of these technologies is not defined by technical performance alone; it hinges on how they are perceived by key stakeholders and how well they align with broader societal values. This study addresses the critical question of how expert stakeholders evaluate the sustainability of GE and nano-based food and agriculture (agrifood) products. Using a multi-method online platform, we engaged 42 experts across academia, government, industry, and NGOs in the United States to assess six real-world case studies—three using GE and three using nano—across ten different dimensions of sustainability. We show that nano-based products were consistently rated more favorably than their GE counterparts in terms of environmental, economic, and social sustainability, as well as across ethical and societal dimensions. Like prior studies, our results reveal that stakeholders see meaningful distinctions between nanotechnology and biotechnology, likely due to underlying value-based concerns about animal welfare, perceived naturalness, or corporate control of agrifood systems. The fruit coating and flu vaccine—both nano-enabled—received the most positive ratings, while GE mustard greens and salmon were the most polarizing. These results underscore the importance of incorporating stakeholder perspectives in technology assessment and innovation governance. These results also suggest that responsible innovation efforts in agrifood systems should prioritize communication, addressing meaningful societal needs, and the contextual understanding of societal values to build trust and legitimacy. Full article

In vitro meat presents a promising alternative to conventional meat production by addressing environmental and animal welfare concerns. However, broader market adoption depends on increasing consumer acceptance. Labels on product packaging have been shown to be effective in influencing consumer behavior in previous studies. This paper examines the impact of different front-of-package labels on German consumers’ choices regarding in vitro chicken meat, with the goal of identifying effective labeling strategies. To investigate this, an online choice experiment was conducted with 200 participants from Germany. In addition to the label, products varied in terms of price, origin, and calorie content. The data were analyzed using latent class analysis, which identified four distinct consumer segments characterized by their preferences, attitudes, and personal characteristics. The results were used to simulate market scenarios, evaluating the effectiveness of different labeling strategies for in vitro chicken meat. These insights provide a foundation for targeted marketing approaches that promote consumer acceptance and inform the introduction of in vitro meat products in Germany. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered consumer habits, particularly in relation to food choices. In this context, plant-based diets have gained prominence, driven by health, environmental, and ethical considerations. This study investigates the primary motivational and inhibitory factors influencing the consumption of plant-based foods among residents of the Galicia–Northern Portugal Euroregion. Utilizing the Theory of Reasoned Action, an extended model was proposed and tested through a quantitative survey. A total of 214 valid responses were collected via an online questionnaire distributed in Portuguese and Spanish. Linear regression analysis revealed that health awareness, animal welfare, and environmental concern significantly shape positive attitudes, which subsequently affect the intention to consume plant-based foods. Additionally, perceived barriers—such as lack of taste and insufficient information—were found to negatively influence intention. These findings contribute to the consumer behavior literature and provide strategic insights for stakeholders aiming to promote more sustainable dietary patterns in culturally connected cross-border regions. Full article

The growing recognition of animal sentience has led to notable progress in European Union animal welfare legislation. However, a significant inconsistency remains: while mammals, birds, and cephalopods are legally protected as sentient beings, honeybees (Apis mellifera)—despite robust scientific evidence of their cognitive, emotional, and sensory complexity—are excluded from such protections. This manuscript examines, from an interdisciplinary perspective, the divergence between emerging evidence on invertebrate sentience and current EU legal frameworks. Honeybees and cephalopods serve as comparative case studies to assess inconsistencies in the criteria for legal recognition of sentience. Findings increasingly confirm that honeybees exhibit advanced cognitive functions, emotional states, and behavioral flexibility comparable to those of legally protected vertebrates. Their omission from welfare legislation lacks scientific justification and raises ethical and ecological concerns, especially given their central role in pollination and ecosystem stability. In general, we advocate for the inclusion of Apis mellifera in EU animal welfare policy. However, we are aware that there are also critical views on their introduction, which we address in a dedicated paragraph of the manuscript. For this reason, we advocate a gradual and evidence-based approach, guided by a permanent observatory, which could ensure that legislation evolves in parallel with scientific understanding, promoting ethical consistency, sustainable agriculture, and integrated health under the One Health framework. This approach would meet the concerns of consumers who consider well-being and respect for the environment as essential principles of breeding, and who carefully choose products from animals raised with systems that respect welfare, with indisputable economic advantages for the beekeeper. Full article

Although consumption is a key engine of economic growth, it is also one of the main drivers of environmental degradation. In this context, a deeper understanding of consumers’ perceptions and behavior regarding sustainable products is essential for promoting a more sustainable future, with behavioral change being crucial to achieving it. This research study explores consumer behavior regarding sustainable egg consumption, a sector where production is frequently associated with environmental and ethical concerns such as animal welfare and intensive resource use. Based on a sample of 197 valid responses from Portuguese egg consumers collected through an online survey distributed between 27 February and 17 March, of the year 2025, and applying the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework through a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach, this study finds that consumers’ intention to consume sustainable eggs is influenced by their attitudes and subjective norms. Furthermore, actual consumption behavior is driven by both the intention to consume sustainable eggs and perceived behavioral control. By providing an in-depth analysis of consumer behavior related to sustainable egg consumption, this study contributes to the advancement of the scientific literature on the subject. It also aims to support policymakers and other stakeholders in designing and implementing more effective strategies to promote environmentally responsible consumption practices. Full article

The review provides an overview of research concerning the assessment of cattle welfare in different housing systems. Hence, it restricts its scope to factors known to have a particular influence on the expression of their natural behaviours. It analyses the impact of housing systems on social and maternal bonds, as well as on the health and productivity of animals and on the feeding behaviour and physical activity of animals. It also pays attention to the occurrence of stereotypies, indicating the quality of the environment in which animals live, and attempts to determine the extent to which environmental enrichment improves welfare. It can be seen that welfare can vary significantly depending on the cattle rearing system. In intensive rearing environments, weaning calves and limited space often result in stress and behavioural disorders (e.g., cross-sucking). Extensive systems, offering access to pasture and longer cow–calf contact, usually provide higher levels of welfare. A freestall system allows greater freedom of movement and social contact but requires appropriate management to prevent aggression; in contrast, the tethering system limits movement, which increases the risk of stress and health problems. It has also been shown that enriching the living space of animals can significantly improve their welfare, regardless of the housing system. By balancing productivity with ensuring that the cattle are able to express their natural behaviours and maintain good health, it is possible to benefit both the animals and the agricultural sector as a whole, increasing its profitability and gaining consumer confidence. Full article

The contemporary food environment is experiencing substantial transformations, and sustainability and the pursuit of novel ingredients have become pivotal factors in consumer decision-making and business strategy formulation. The emergence of alternative proteins has significant implications for sustainability, climate change mitigation and animal welfare, and can potentially promote the achievement of different United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The spread of these novel foods requires significant attention, particularly concerning younger demographics, which are often considered to be more environmentally and ethically aware when making dietary choices. This study investigates the psychological and attitudinal factors that shape young consumers’ intention to consume plant-based, insect-based, and cultured meat alternative proteins, and verifies the existence of heterogeneous segments of consumers. To this purpose principal component analysis and k-means cluster analysis are employed using data from an online survey conducted in Italy, with a sample of 350 young consumers. The findings reveal that the intention to consume alternative protein sources is not particularly pronounced among the young consumers and differs according to the type of alternative protein. Three different profiles of young consumers were found: traditionalist (39% of the sample); enthusiastic (17%) and open-minded (44%). These segments differ significantly with respect to consumption intention, socio-demographic, lifestyle and psychological variables. The results provide useful insights for policymakers to design targeted interventions to encourage young consumers’ sustainable food choices. The findings could also be useful for marketers interested in investing in such innovations as they can benefit from an in-depth knowledge of this market segment. Full article

Nowadays, consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about the husbandry conditions under which animals are raised, particularly broilers, since broilers are one of the species whose welfare is most impaired in intensive farming systems. One of the primary means of communicating husbandry practices to consumers is through product labelling. Thus, a rising number of animal welfare labelling schemes for broilers are being developed and used across Europe by initiatives of both public and private stakeholders, including NGOs that advocate for animal welfare. This review aims to identify, analyze, and compare these labelling schemes with a focus on the main animal welfare provisions included in them, which contribute to enhanced animal welfare. The schemes were identified through web searches, so that we could visit their official websites, access their standards and regulations and study them in detail. We included in our research only those schemes whose criteria were publicly available. In total, 16 schemes were selected and analyzed. Although these schemes vary in their criteria, they all enhance the welfare standards of broiler production, primarily through incorporating environmental enrichment and/or access to the outdoors. Most schemes define and specify in detail the required animal welfare provisions, setting a clear application frame for the raising period of the birds. However, the welfare of animals during transport and slaughter is often overlooked. Full article

The physiological capabilities of horses begin to decline after they reach 15 years of age. However, some exceptionally talented horses can continue their sports careers beyond this age, raising concerns about their welfare. This study investigated animal welfare by observing resting heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) metrics in geriatric horses participating in similar training or physical activities compared to younger adult horses over 30 min periods. Forty-six horses of varying ages and activity levels were divided into four groups, including horses under 15 years practising structured training for dressage (AL-1; N = 13) and school riding (AL-2; N = 13) and horses aged between 15 and 20 years participating in AL-1 (N = 10) and AL-2 (N = 10). In adult horses, the HR decreased in those performing AL-1, which was observed alongside an increased RR interval compared to those participating in AL-2 (p < 0.05 for both). Meanwhile, HRV increased in adult horses (measured by pNN50) but decreased in geriatric horses (measured by SDANN, SDNNI, DC, and SD2) participating in AL-1 when compared to their counterparts in AL-2 (p < 0.05 for all). Adult horses exhibited better autonomic regulation while engaged in structured dressage training than geriatric horses. These findings underscore the necessity for the careful management of physical activities to ensure the well-being of all horses, particularly older ones. Full article

The increasing integration of sensing devices with smart technologies, deep learning algorithms, and robotics is profoundly transforming the agricultural sector in the context of Farming 4.0. These technological advancements constitute critical enablers for the development of customized, data-driven farming systems, offering potential solutions to the challenges of agricultural intensification while addressing societal concerns associated with the emerging paradigm of “farming by numbers”. The Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) systems enable the continuous, real-time, and individual sensing of livestock in order to detect subtle change in animals’ status and permit timely corrective actions. In addition, smart technology implementation within the housing environment leads the whole farming sector towards enhanced business rentability and food security as well as increased animal health and welfare conditions. Looking to the future, the collection, processing, and analysis of data with advanced statistic methods provide valuable information useful to design predictive models and foster the insight on animal welfare, environmental sustainability, farming productivity, and profitability. This review highlights the significant potential of implementing advanced sensing systems in livestock farming, examining the scientific foundations of PLF and analyzing the main technological applications driving the transition from traditional practices to more modern and efficient farming models. Full article

Animal welfare is one of the core concerns in the field of animal science, with behavior serving as a direct reflection of emotional state and health, and thus a key indicator for welfare assessment. With the widespread adoption of intensive farming systems, abnormal behaviors in pigs have become a prominent marker of compromised welfare. In the past few years, the role of gut microbes in the regulation of animal behavior has received increasing attention. This review summarizes the strong relationship between pig behavior and welfare, and focuses on the emerging research linking gut microbiota to behavioral expression in pigs. Furthermore, it outlines the mechanisms by which the microbiota modulates behavior through the microbiota–gut–brain axis (MGBA), including immune, endocrine, and neural pathways. Additionally, the potential of microbiota-targeted interventions to improve pig welfare, including probiotics and prebiotics, will be evaluated. As a critical bridge connecting physiology and psychology, the gut microbiota shows significant promise for advancing welfare regulation in pigs. Full article

Flight is part of the natural behaviours of most bird species, and as a consequence, flight restraint in zoos, even for those species that are primarily ground-dwelling, encounters increasing animal welfare concerns. While previous studies on greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) and white pelicans (Pelecanus onocrotalus) have found no significant effects of flight restraint on welfare, scientific data on other species remains limited. This study investigated the welfare implications of flight restraint in white storks (Ciconia ciconia) by assessing feather corticosterone concentrations (CORTf) alongside behavioural observations. We compared CORTf values of deflighted zoo birds (n = 53) and hand-reared abandoned nestlings (n = 11) from eleven different zoos in Germany and storks in rehabilitation. These birds were wild individuals, found injured, and therefore provided an opportunity to collect feather samples (n = 70). In line with the 3R principle proposed by Russell and Burch, we employed a recently validated, less invasive feather sampling method that involves cutting feathers close to the skin. We hypothesised that CORTf would differ significantly between the wild, airworthy storks and the deflighted individuals under human care. However, we found no significant difference in CORTf regarding the ability to fly, nor did the method of flight restraint show a significant influence on CORTf. Housing facilities with significant site-specific variations emerged as the predominant factor influencing feather corticosterone concentrations. These results suggest that flight restraint does not have a noticeable direct impact on the corticosterone levels of white storks, and the behavioural observations support the reliability of these findings. This study enhances our understanding of the effects of deflighting procedures on the welfare of white storks in zoos. Full article

This review critically analyzes recent advancements in dairy cow behavior recognition, highlighting novel methodological contributions through the integration of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques such as transformer models and multi-view tracking with social network analysis (SNA). Such integration offers transformative opportunities for improving dairy cattle welfare, but current applications remain limited. We describe the transition from manual, observer-based assessments to automated, scalable methods using convolutional neural networks (CNNs), spatio-temporal models, and attention mechanisms. Although object detection models, including You Only Look Once (YOLO), EfficientDet, and sequence models, such as Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) and Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (convLSTM), have improved detection and classification, significant challenges remain, including occlusions, annotation bottlenecks, dataset diversity, and limited generalizability. Existing interaction inference methods rely heavily on distance-based approximations (i.e., assuming that proximity implies social interaction), lacking the semantic depth essential for comprehensive SNA. To address this, we propose innovative methodological intersections such as pose-aware SNA frameworks and multi-camera fusion techniques. Moreover, we explicitly discuss ethical challenges and data governance issues, emphasizing data transparency and animal welfare concerns within precision livestock contexts. We clarify how these methodological innovations directly impact practical farming by enhancing monitoring precision, herd management, and welfare outcomes. Ultimately, this synthesis advocates for strategic, empathetic, and ethically responsible precision dairy farming practices, significantly advancing both dairy cow welfare and operational effectiveness. Full article