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'Helpful', 'Objective', and 'Useful': User Perceptions of the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) for Dogs as a
Rachel Malkani1, Sharmini Julita Paramasivam1, Sarah Wolfensohn1
1University of Surrey School of Veterinary Medicine, Guildford, UK.
Veterinary Medicine and Science
|June 19, 2026
Summary
The Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) aids veterinary professionals in making objective ethical decisions for dog welfare. Most users found it useful for improving welfare discussions and decision-making in practice.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ethics
- Animal Welfare Science
- Decision Support Tools
Background:
- Ethical decision-making in animal welfare is often subjective.
- Standardized tools are needed to improve objectivity in complex ethical dilemmas.
- The Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) is proposed as a potential solution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the utility of the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG).
- To assess AWAG's effectiveness in various dog welfare sectors (veterinary, shelter, assistance dogs).
- To identify areas for AWAG refinement.
Main Methods:
- Online mixed-methods questionnaire distributed to professionals using AWAG.
- 38 veterinary and animal welfare professionals provided feedback.
- Assessed tool functionality and user experience.
Main Results:
- Over 96% of respondents recognized AWAG's utility in decision-making.
- AWAG facilitated discussions on dog welfare among professionals and caregivers.
- A minority reported challenges, highlighting areas for improvement.
Conclusions:
- AWAG is a valuable tool for veterinary and animal welfare professionals.
- It aids in assessing dog welfare and informs treatment/management decisions.
- AWAG promotes objective reasoning, potentially transforming welfare integration in practice.
