This chapter emphasises the importance of understanding the mental states of animals and the profound impact that care settings can have on their overall health. The chapter discusses how a positive internalisation of external variables by animals can significantly enhance their well-being, even in less than ideal conditions. It highlights the role of care technicians in creating environments that not only provide physical safety and resources but also support the psychological needs of the animals. The narrative integrates scientific observations and behavioural studies to underline the necessity of a holistic approach to animal welfare. Moreover, the chapter includes references to various studies and literature that support the methodologies discussed, ensuring that the approaches to animal welfare are grounded in scientific research. This comprehensive overview serves as a guide for improving the standards of animal care through focused psychological and emotional support.

Organisational culture directly affects the implementation of welfare practices, the effectiveness of communication among staff, and the overall morale within the team. It discusses the importance of a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace environment that fosters both human and animal well-being. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the challenges and strategies involved in cultivating a culture that upholds high standards of animal care, promotes continuous learning, and encourages ethical behaviour among all staff members. It also examines the impact of leadership styles on the health of the organisational culture and its subsequent effect on animal welfare. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights for anyone involved in the management or operation of animal care facilities, offering practical advice on how to enhance organisational culture to better serve both the animals and the people who care for them.

Animal curation is a vital and evolving discipline that integrates science, policy, and hands-on care to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare. As the role of zoos, aquaria, sanctuaries, and research facilities expands beyond exhibition to conservation and education, the management of animals under human care has become increasingly scientific. This book provides a comprehensive guide to the organisation, policies, and procedures essential for effective animal care programmes. It emphasises evidence-based practices in husbandry, veterinary care, and facility management while prioritising both animal well-being and staff safety. Through detailed chapters and real-world case studies, readers will explore species-specific needs, ethical considerations, and regulatory compliance. Designed for students and professionals in animal science, welfare, and conservation, this book moves beyond basic care, focusing on the concept of ‘thriving’ rather than mere survival. It is an essential resource for shaping the future of animal management and welfare.

There are various methodologies to assess the well-being and thriving of animals in care. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of both behavioural and physiological metrics used to evaluate animal welfare. The chapter begins with the specifics of behavioural assessments, discussing the reliability of observers and the use of anecdotal versus ethological observations to gather meaningful data about animal behaviour. Physiological measures are also extensively covered, including routine veterinary examinations, body condition scoring, and assessments of an animal’s quality of life. These measures are crucial for providing a complete picture of an animal’s health and well-being. The chapter emphasises the need for a holistic approach to animal welfare, integrating both observed behaviours and physiological data to ensure that animals are not just surviving but also truly thriving under human care.

Animal curation is a vital and evolving discipline that integrates science, policy, and hands-on care to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare. As the role of zoos, aquaria, sanctuaries, and research facilities expands beyond exhibition to conservation and education, the management of animals under human care has become increasingly scientific. This book provides a comprehensive guide to the organisation, policies, and procedures essential for effective animal care programmes. It emphasises evidence-based practices in husbandry, veterinary care, and facility management while prioritising both animal well-being and staff safety. Through detailed chapters and real-world case studies, readers will explore species-specific needs, ethical considerations, and regulatory compliance. Designed for students and professionals in animal science, welfare, and conservation, this book moves beyond basic care, focusing on the concept of ‘thriving’ rather than mere survival. It is an essential resource for shaping the future of animal management and welfare.

There are strategies and methodologies employed to enhance animal welfare in environments that are inherently non-natural. This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of how artificial settings can be adapted to meet the physiological and psychological needs of animals. It discusses the various aspects of artificial environments, such as the limitations imposed by space and the lack of natural stimuli, and how these can be compensated for through innovative design and management practices. Key topics covered include the design of artificial habitats that mimic natural settings, the importance of providing adequate physical movement, cognitive stimulation, and social interactions within these confines. The chapter also addresses the challenges of creating a stimulating environment that can offer animals a semblance of their natural habitat, focusing on the balance between safety, welfare, and the practical limitations of artificial environments. Overall, the chapter emphasises the necessity of thoughtful and scientifically informed approaches to animal care in artificial settings, aiming to provide animals with opportunities to exhibit natural behaviours and lead fulfilling lives despite the constraints of captivity.

The science of animal care and welfare is centred on a comprehensive exploration into the multifaceted aspects of animal welfare.

The book promises to delve deep into the concept of ‘thriving’ versus merely ‘surviving’, offering a fresh perspective on animal welfare that goes beyond basic needs to encompass physical, psychological, emotional, and social thriving. Halloran introduces the ‘Curatio Fundamentorum’, a foundational approach to animal care that is detailed throughout the book.

This introduction not only outlines the structure of the book but also sets the tone for a detailed discussion on the ethical, scientific, and practical aspects of animal welfare. It is designed to equip caregivers, researchers, and policymakers with the knowledge to improve the lives of animals in their care.