The work of state agencies and vets in animal neglect cases could be helped by better knowledge of the link between farmer stress and wellbeing and livestock neglect, a report from UCD and the Department of Agriculture has found.

While it says incidents of neglect are relatively low in Ireland, it recommends the following:

  • Agencies responding to an on-farm crisis need to be aware that securing farmer health and wellbeing may be the most important strategy in improving animal welfare.
  • Knowing signs of human and livestock neglect can help support professionals identify at-risk situations.
  • Welfare assessments and interventions should be sensitively conducted, especially at times of crisis, and involve a helpful, non-confrontational approach that may include social workers or local support services.
  • Vets have a responsibility to seek to ensure animal welfare – this may require the confidentiality given to a client be put aside.

    • The report recommends a publicity campaign on the importance of positive farmer mental health and pocket-sized information about support services.

    The UCD report is titled Challenges and Solutions To Supporting Farm Animal Welfare in Ireland - Responding to the Human Element.