FVE, FEEVA, FECAVA, and WSAVA have jointly released a position paper addressing the critical links between animal behaviour, welfare, and training methods. This paper underlines the importance of species-specific behaviours in companion animals, especially in dogs, cats, and horses, and provides clear recommendations for promoting good practices across Europe.
Background
Animal behaviour is a vital aspect of welfare, as it is directly linked to both physical and emotional well-being. Recent years have seen increased attention on behavioural modification and training methods, with the recognition that some practices can have significant welfare implications. Improper training techniques, particularly those that inhibit species-specific behaviours or use aversive tools, can cause long-term psychological and physical harm to animals.
This position paper focuses on dogs, cats, and horses as key examples, addressing the unique behavioural needs of predators and prey, and highlighting the role of veterinarians in ensuring good welfare outcomes.
Key Points of Support
The joint paper provides 14 recommendations that aim to improve welfare through evidence-based behavioural practices. The recommendations are broken down into key areas:
- Preventative Behavioural Medicine: Addressing behavioural issues early to prevent the development of more serious problems.
- Socialisation and Habituation: Supporting proper socialisation in young animals to promote emotional stability and reduce future behavioural problems.
- Training Methods: Advocating for positive reinforcement-based training and opposing the use of aversive techniques, including electric pulse collars.
- Species-Specific Behaviour Opportunities: Ensuring animals have the chance to express natural behaviours, such as play and foraging, which are essential for psychological well-being.
- Accreditation of Behaviourists: Encouraging the standardization and accreditation of animal behaviourists to ensure they follow welfare-focused practices.
Areas for Improvement
While supporting many aspects of current practices, the position paper also identifies areas needing improvement:
- Ban on Painful Training Devices: Calling for an EU-wide ban on the use of electric pulse training devices and other tools that cause unnecessary pain or discomfort.
- Cosmetic Mutilations: Advocating for a ban on non-medically necessary procedures, such as tail docking and ear cropping, across all EU countries.
- Problem Behaviour: Encouraging more research into the causes of problem behaviours, such as fear, anxiety, and frustration, to develop better treatment strategies.
Conclusion
The FVE, FEEVA, FECAVA, and WSAVA joint position paper emphasizes the importance of addressing behavioural issues in a way that enhances the welfare of companion animals. By advocating for better training methods, prevention of behavioural problems, and the need for species-specific behaviours, this paper aims to set a standard for animal care across the EU and beyond.
For a full analysis of the position paper and the complete list of recommendations, click here.
