There exists a multifaceted concept of thriving as opposed to mere survival in animal care. The chapter begins by establishing a foundational understanding of what it means for animals to truly thrive, emphasising that thriving encompasses not only physical health but also psychological, emotional, and social well-being.

The chapter further explores the various aspects of thriving. It discusses physical thriving through adequate nutrition and exercise, psychological thriving through mental stimulation and problem-solving activities, emotional thriving via positive interactions and stable environments, and social thriving through healthy relationships within species groups.

Additionally, the chapter introduces Vicino and Miller’s Five Opportunities to Thrive, which provide a structured approach to evaluating and enhancing animal welfare. These opportunities include ensuring safety, facilitating natural behaviours, promoting positive states, preventing negative states, and fostering growth and development. This framework serves as a guide for care technicians to create environments that support all dimensions of animal welfare.

Overall, this chapter sets the stage for a deeper understanding of animal welfare, advocating for a holistic approach to animal care that goes beyond basic needs to ensure animals lead fulfilling lives.

Human beings are inherently social. Millennia of evidence show that people improve their lives through various forms of social organization (societies). Therefore, individual, group, and community thriving is intrinsically connected to the advancement of society. Guided by the theory of the common good, this chapter defines the characteristics of a thriving society through the fundamental contribution of fairness, worthiness, and wellness. In terms of fairness, thriving societies require an equitable distribution of benefits and responsibilities (distributive fairness), transparent procedures and active participation (procedural fairness), and a system that both punishes wrongdoings and rewards honorary behaviors (reciprocal fairness). Regarding social worthiness, a thriving society embraces inclusion and diversity, promotes active citizenship, and recognizes the contribution of those who contribute towards societal betterment. Lastly, social wellness emphasizes that a society must prioritize the holistic well-being of all members. Finally, we argue that the synergistic contribution of fairness, worthiness, and wellness can transform societies into places where everyone can thrive.