RSPCA believes that the welfare of an animal includes its physical and mental state, and that good animal welfare implies both fitness and a sense of well-being.The RSPCA believes that the Five Freedoms created by the UK Farm Animal Welfare Council provide a base from which to consider the welfare of an animal;
1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst: By ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour
2. Freedom from Discomfort: By providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area
3. Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease: By providing appropriate preventative measures, along with rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4. Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour: By providing for species specific requirements with respect to space, enrichment and social needs
5. Freedom from Fear and Distress: By ensuring species specific conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering
We utilise scientific evidence in regards to how best to address these areas in a species specific way that is meaningful to the welfare of each individual animal, and we apply these guiding principles to all our policies and areas of interest.
RSPCA Qld also advocates these principles throughout our areas of operation. These include our animal centres, inspectorate, animal ambulance services, veterinary services, behaviour assessments, cruelty case management, lost and found services, volunteer programs, education programs, bequest and pet legacy programs, fundraising initiatives, animal training centres, publicity and campaign promotions.
