Using Animal Behaviour and Cognition Research to Improve Welfare Standards

Historically, the study of animal behaviour and cognition has been driven by aspects of basic science curiosity, including the desire to better understand evolution and natural selection. Research on behaviour and cognition is also essential for enhancing animal welfare by providing insights into animal needs and preferences. Further, studying behaviour and cognition helps to illuminate the complex relationships between humans and animals, thereby contributing to better animal welfare. Thus, it is essential to effectively communicate research findings to a range of key stakeholders (e.g. general public, farmers), when it comes to findings that have welfare implications. Despite a global population of more than one billion, goats have historically received limited attention in terms of behaviour and welfare research, possibly due to their relatively low numbers in the Global North. Over the past 15 years, our goat research has shown, for example, how goats express their emotions, as well as how goats perceive emotions in conspecifics and humans. We have also demonstrated their remarkable physical and social cognition abilities, including long-term memory, thus challenging the notion that goats are not intelligent. We have used press releases and engaged extensively with key stakeholders to disseminate our findings and thus improve goat welfare. As a result, our research findings have been used to improve welfare guidelines, particularly regarding handling and transportation. Through effective stakeholder engagement, researchers can reach a larger audience for their results, and ultimately improve animal lives.