One welfare a framework to improve animal welfare and human well-being

Introduction 11

Table 1. Relationship between One Welfare and the five freedoms, provisions and
domains (*adapted from FAWC, 1993 and Mellor, 2016).

Five freedoms, provisions and domain* One Welfare connections

Nutrition Freedom from
hunger,
thirst and
malnutrition

Ready access to

fresh water and a

diet to maintain

full health and

vigour

Provision of food and water
to animals is key to secure
their health and welfare,
and to underpin human
livelihoods
Environment Freedom from
discomfort

Providing a

suitable

environment

including

shelter and a

comfortable

resting area

Environmental resources are
connected to both humans
and animals
Suitable accommodation for
animals improves their
well-being and coexistence
with humans
Health Freedom from
pain, injury
and disease

Prevention or

rapid diagnosis

and treatment

Improved animal welfare
helps sustain a better
immune system and
underpin human
livelihoods, having positive
impacts on productivity,
reduction of antimicrobial
use or longer working lives
Animals sick and/or in pain
may display unwanted
behaviours which may
negatively impact animal–
human interactions and
compromise welfare
Mental state Freedom from
fear and
distress

Ensuring

conditions avoid

mental suffering

Non-violent handling of
animals fosters better
human societies and helps
prevent human violence
and abuse
Behaviour Freedom to
express
normal
behaviour

Providing sufficient

space, proper

facilities and

company of the

animal’s own kind

Animals free from behavioural

disorders will have better

relations with the humans

they interact with

approach. Some One Health programmes have recently included welfare;

however, this broadens the One Health scope even further. Having a distinct

but complementary One Welfare framework provides a space for non-disease-

focused disciplines.

One Welfare comprises the behavioural and mental health components

of One Health. Similar to the way in which mental health is often neglected