Animal Welfare

Both animal welfare and animal rights groups care about animals but their approach to improving the lives of animals is different.

For some people, animal welfare might be a lofty topic, but lets discuss why how an animal was farmed matters.

Eggs are an amazing little package that many of us will find ourselves eating throughout the year. At Christmas time, there are some especially tasty egg-based treats – including the quintessential kiwi pavlova! Support Hen Welfare and choose SPCA Certified Eggs this Christmas.

New Zealand prides itself on having progressive animal welfare legislation. But New Zealand’s farmed animals may not always live a good life. While we wait for legislative change to improve animals’ lives, there are things each of us can do to make a difference. Being a conscious consumer is one of them.

Buying 100% NZ pork matters as imported pork is often sourced from countries with lower animal welfare standards than those NZ pig farmers are held to.

Antimicrobial resistance has a huge impact on human and animal health. Antimicrobial stewardship can help to reduce the incidence and development of antimicrobial resistance through appropriate use of antimicrobials and animal management practices that reduce the risk of animals becoming sick.

The use of pain relief - in its various forms - is becoming more common on New Zealand farms, and globally. There is increasing scientific evidence to show both the positive effects on animal welfare and animal productivity.

There is a growing number of companies around the globe committing to and working towards using 100% cage-free eggs, promising a better future for layer hens worldwide.

Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease and being prepared is important to protect your flocks. Strict hygiene and biosecurity practices can help keep domestic birds safe and reduce the risk of spreading the disease.

Animal welfare thinking has evolved over the years. SPCA Certified has adopted these changes to ensure animals under the programme can live a better life.