Zoos and the animal welfare debate

Tribe, Andrew (2007). Zoos and the animal welfare debate. In: , Conference Proceedings: AVA Annual Conference 2007. AVA Annual Conference 2007, Melbourne, Vic, Australia, (). 13-18 May 2007.


Author Tribe, Andrew
Title of paper Zoos and the animal welfare debate
Conference name AVA Annual Conference 2007
Conference location Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Conference dates 13-18 May 2007
Proceedings title Conference Proceedings: AVA Annual Conference 2007
Publisher Australian Veterinary Association (AVA)
Publication date 2007
Total pages 5
Language eng
Formatted Abstract/Summary Despite their popularity and place in our tourism history, in recent years zoos have undergone considerable change in both their structure and function. Whilst remaining attractive places to visit, zoos now seek a new image – one that emphasizes their role in conservation and public education. However, the relationship between the modern zoo and its visitors remains variable, and the visitors’ perceptions are still coloured by the history of zoos. This quandary not only makes life difficult for zoos, but also means that our relationship with them is often confused and contradictory - they remain popular places for tourism and education, yet are still criticised as being old fashioned and out-moded.

The primary attraction of zoos is, of course, their animals. However, changes in public expectations and the zoo’s own objectives mean that today there is far more scrutiny of the way in which their animals are being managed and utilised. This has involved consideration of the ethics of zoos, and in particular of the welfare of their captive animals. In this, the first of two papers on zoo animal welfare, we will look briefly at the ethics of zoos, at the evolution of the zoo welfare debate, and at the development of zoo exhibits.
Subjects 0707 Veterinary Sciences

 
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Created: Tue, 27 Apr 2010, 09:14:39 EST by Jon Swabey on behalf of Faculty Of Nat Resources, Agric & Veterinary Sc