Canadian dairy farmer views about animal welfare

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Animal Welfare Studies
• Sociology of Agriculture

Background:

• Growing public concern for farm animal welfare.
• Traditional research focuses on management refinement.
• Incorporating farmer perspectives is crucial for welfare improvements.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate Canadian dairy farmers' perspectives on animal welfare.
• Identify key themes in farmers' views on animal well-being.
• Explore shared values between farmers and the public regarding animal welfare.

Main Methods:

• Conducted 16 semi-structured interviews with 22 dairy farmers across Canada.
• Utilized thematic analysis (deductive and inductive) on transcribed interview data and field notes.
• Anonymized and coded qualitative data to identify recurring themes.

Main Results:

• Identified two major themes: the 'animal dimension' (biological functioning, naturalness, affective states) and 'dairy farmer identity' (role, human-animal relationships).
• Farmers emphasized biological functioning but also referenced emotional and natural living aspects.
• Farmers expressed a sense of duty beyond profit, valuing animals beyond utilitarian function.

Conclusions:

• Dairy farmers hold nuanced views on animal welfare, encompassing biological, natural, and emotional dimensions.
• Shared values exist between farmers and the public regarding natural living, individual animal attention, and the value of life.
• These shared values can foster constructive dialogue on farm animal welfare.