Enhancing animal welfare for pets of people living in poverty

Pet ownership should be congruent with the definition of the human-animal bond, which is a “mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that is influenced by behaviors that are essential to the health and well-being of both.” The pet should benefit from the care provided by the owner as much as the owner should benefit from the companionship offered by the pet. However, the balance may not always be in favor of the animal, especially under circumstances were financial limitations prevent securing the animal’s basic needs associated with ideal pet ownership. If these needs are not met, the welfare of that animal may be compromised and a cause for concern and intervention. The welfare state of the animal owned by a family living in poverty may be assessed using the Five Freedoms: the freedom from hunger and thirst; freedom from discomfort; freedom from pain, injury, or disease; freedom to express normal behavior; and freedom from fear and distress. There is no doubt that pets owned by people living in poverty face challenges that threaten each of the freedoms. If any of these freedoms are endangered, actionable steps should be taken to assist the owner to improve the conditions. Even within the constraints of financial limitations, each freedom can be successfully achieved with proper education and guidance. This presentation will inform veterinary and allied health professionals how to accurately and objectively assess the welfare state of an animal and to strategize ways to enhance the quality of life for a pet belonging to owners with limited resources. This permits the human-animal bond to be accessible to all humans, regardless of socioeconomic status.

Learning Objectives:

To describe the risks of poverty on animal health and welfare.

To identify resources for supporting a pet owned by a person living in poverty.