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Master Animal Ethics and Welfare – Notes, Case Studies and Practical Insights – with Rahul

Hierarchy of Needs (Adapted from Maslow’s Hierarchy Applied to Animals)

  • Like humans, animals have needs arranged in a hierarchical order.
  • Higher-level needs become relevant only after basic needs are met.

 

Levels of Animal Needs:

a. Basic Physiological Needs

  • Food, water, air, rest, shelter.
  • Example: Cattle require constant access to drinking water and balanced diet.

b. Safety and Health Needs

  • Protection from predators, harsh environment, disease, and injury.
  • Example: Vaccination, secure housing, parasite control.

c. Social Needs

  • Companionship, group living, bonding, maternal care.
  • Example: Sheep require flocking to feel secure.

d. Behavioral and Comfort Needs

  • Space and environment to express natural behaviors.
  • Example: Poultry require perches and dust bathing areas.

e. Psychological and Mental Well-being

  • Freedom from stress, fear, and suffering.
  • Example: Calm handling, positive stockperson–animal interaction.

f. Self-fulfillment or Species-specific Needs

  • Ability to live in a way that reflects species-specific characteristics.
  • Example: Pigs rooting, cattle grazing, horses running in open fields.
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