Informed by recent advances in animal behavioural and cognitive sciences, new understanding of the remarkable abilities of a wide range of animals is leading to a fundamental reconsideration of the ways in which we use, and sometimes exploit, other species. Combining the expertise of 50 authors – many of whom are world leaders in their fields, the Routledge Handbook of Animal Welfare comprehensively covers animal welfare concerns associated with the farming of terrestrial species and fish, transportation, slaughter, the use of animals in laboratories, zoos, entertainment settings, and as companions, working animals, and more. Virtually all contemporary animal welfare issues are covered in depth.

Many of these are controversial, challenging accepted practices, and throwing into sharp relief the differing interests of stakeholders such as industry, government, wider society, and of course, the animals themselves. In such a socially contested domain, sound evidence is important. This book explores the scientific underpinnings for the moral consideration of animals – and of evolving conceptualisations of animal welfare, that give rise to concerns about the welfare of animals used in a wide variety of settings.

The inclusion of recent topics such as the impacts of climate change on animal welfare, and the links between animal exploitation, antimicrobial resistance and pandemics, ensure this text is among the most current in its field. This textbook also includes coverage of animal ethics, animal law in key regions of the world, stakeholder perspectives, education, communication and human behavioural change. It is essential reading for policy-makers, researchers and other professionals working in the animal welfare sector, and for students of animal welfare everywhere.

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