Animal welfare: understanding and addressing issues related to the well-being of livestock

Abstract

The goals of Oregon livestock producers are parallel to those of the American Dream—to enjoy an occupation of raising livestock, provide for their families, be independent, and avoid unwarranted criticism and interference. For Oregon livestock producers to stay in business and remain on the ranch, they must be efficient, responsible producers. This requires proper animal husbandry practices as well as business acumen. Furthermore, producers need to adapt to changing situations and adopt methods that allow for continued improvement of their practices. One way to achieve these goals is to become familiar with issues that are becoming increasingly important to livestock industries and to the consuming public. One of these issues is animal welfare.