Virtual Talk Highlights Realities For Japanese Animal Facilities
Whilst some of our team have been physically present in our project countries recently, Wild Welfare has continued to utilise virtual methods to reach and teach more people about animal welfare.
Consultant and co-founder Georgina Groves recently gave a presentation through video link to the Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations (FAVA). The topic discussed was the keeping of exotic animals in captivity within Japan, and whether these public wildlife facilities are a valuable forum to promote empathy and connection with nature, or simply an excuse for exploitation of exotic species which can lead to animal suffering.
The talk highlighted the importance of separating the perception of what we think animals need from their actual welfare requirements, and how to accurately assess these using scientific models. Different captive animal facilities were discussed, with a focus on exotic animal cafes along with the welfare implications of holding animals in such facilities, and the barriers to learning opportunities within them when animal welfare is very poor.
The presentation was watched by over 2,500 people attending the 21st congress, which is held every two years. Participants included veterinarians, medical professionals, and environmental researchers.
Georgina was delighted to be invited to speak at the event, the theme of which, this year, was focusing on a one health approach, highlighting how the health of humans, animals and environments are inextricably interlinked. FAVA was established in 1978 and represents 23 countries across the Asia-Oceania region, including many which Wild Welfare already runs projects in.
“The lecture was one of the most interesting topics in the congress. It was an honour to have Georgina as one of the guest speakers. We believe that the knowledge she shared will help immensely in the development of One Health Activities in not only Japan but also other Asian countries.” Midori Tatesawa, the secretariat of the Japan Veterinary Medical Association.
The overarching animal protection movement was introduced to the country in the late 1800’s but animal welfare as a scientific concept itself is relatively new within Japan. Wild Welfare has been collaborating with Japanese facilities and organisations for many years, from providing animal welfare workshops to aiding accreditation protocols and rehoming individual bears.
Our collaborative approach with Japanese experts and community led solutions have led to significant and positive changes for animals within Japan, and we continue to look forward to furthering our animal welfare action across Japan and beyond in the future.
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Notes to Editors
For more information or interview requests please contact Wild Welfare on communications@wildwelfare.org
Wild Welfare is a global organisation committed to improving animal welfare for captive wild animals. By uniting the world’s leading zoos, zoo associations and animal welfare organisations, we build trusting partnerships that help provide long-term solutions to critical wild animal welfare issues.
Our vision is to end the suffering of captive wild animals around the world and ensure full and sustainable protection is given to all animals in human care. Find out more at wildwelfare.org. Registered charity in England (no.1165941).
