Expert comment: Sustainable farming and animal welfare

Evidence shows that animals that are healthy and emotionally well not only have a better quality of life but also contribute towards better-quality food products. Good welfare means more than having basic needs met; it involves creating an environment where animals can thrive and express natural behaviour. Balancing high welfare standards and achieving productivity can be challenging. This is where the role of a veterinary surgeon, particularly in the farming industry, is vital.   

Veterinary surgeons provide critical services such as disease prevention, treatment plans, reproductive management, herd health management and monitoring, which directly impact the quality and safety of animal products. Beyond clinical work, they also act as educators, advising farmers on best practices in animal husbandry and ethical farm management. This is achieved through a good working relationship with the farmers, who hold the duty of care for these animals.  

Additionally, farming has an influence on the environment, and there are burgeoning efforts to implement sustainable practices. This means meeting the current needs without impacting the environment negatively. A One Health, One Medicine approach is used routinely by veterinarians in production animal practice where decision-making also considers other aspects such as soil health, biodiversity and environmental impacts.  

Sustainable livestock farming and high animal welfare standards are integral to a healthy food system. Veterinary surgeons contribute significantly to these efforts, ensuring practices are both environmentally sustainable and ethically sound. Their work reinforces the deep connection between animal care, public health and environmental stewardship.