Animal health

Animal and human health are closely linked. Every year, three to five new human diseases originate in the animal world. A better understanding of the pathogens circulating in animals helps us prepare for future epidemics in humans. The issue is summarised here in a few key concepts to aid understanding.

The concept of animal welfare is at the crossroads of numerous philosophical, moral, scientific, technological, economic, regulatory and social influences that are sometimes conflicting. The welfare of animals dependent on humans – livestock, pets, animals used for scientific purposes and zoo animals – is playing an increasingly important role in our society. What is animal welfare? Is it enough just to treat an animal well? How is animal welfare objectively measured? Is it possible to redefine animal husbandry in order to improve it? And what is ANSES doing about it? You will find the answers to all these questions in our article.