Models of Animal Wellbeing in Husbandry

Animal Husbandry

Guide for the day-to-day care of an animal or species, including diet, nutrition, space, climate, social interactions, and health.

Stakeholder

Any person or group who significantly affects or is significantly affected by a wildlife, conservation, or husbandry decision.

Primary Husbandry Stakeholders

Entities such as animals, zoo visitors, and keepers/staff that play a critical role in husbandry.

Five Freedoms

A past model of animal welfare focusing on freedom from thirst, hunger, discomfort, pain, injury, disease, and fear.

Natural History

How an animal typically behaves in its natural habitat.

Individual History

Everything that has happened to a specific animal throughout its life.

AZA Studbooks

Documents the pedigree and demographic history of animals within AZA managed populations.

Homeostasis

The combination of biological processes that maintain an animal's body in a stable state necessary for survival.

Allostasis

The ability of an animal to make physiological and behavioral adjustments in response to stressors.

Five Domains Model of Welfare

A model that facilitates welfare via observation, understanding, and assessment of various factors.

Five Domain Component: Nutrition

Involves analysis of food consumption, quality, preparation, and foraging opportunities.

Five Domain Component: Environment

Considers habitat factors such as decor, water quality, and opportunities for self-maintenance.

Five Domain Component: Physical Health

Focuses on rapid diagnosis, treatment of disease or injury, and promoting health across life stages.

Five Domain Component: Behavior

Encourages species-specific behaviors and meets social and developmental needs.

Five Domain Component: Mental State

Focuses on minimizing aversive experiences while promoting comfort, pleasure, and positive emotions.