The Role of Learning and Training for Ageing Animal Care and Wellbeing
Publication Type: |
Book Section |
Year of Publication: |
2023 |
Authors: |
Sabrina Brando, Debra Marrin |
Publication/Journal: |
Optimal Wellbeing of Ageing Wild Animals in Human Care |
Publisher: |
Springer International Publishing |
Keywords: |
aging, animal care, animal welfare, geriatric, learning, training |
ISBN: |
978-3-031-30659-4 |
Abstract:
Understanding animal learning and training can greatly support animal care and good animal wellbeing through all stages of life, including when animals are ageing and often require special care. Thinking and planning for the needs and integrating the preferences of an individual animal are fundamental in short- and long-term wellbeing programmes, including animal training programmes. Good animal care and wellbeing programmes pay attention to the types of training methods specifically and learning in general, with a focus on positive reinforcement and good human–animal interactions. Through proactive planning and monitoring, age-related health concerns can potentially be detected early, and species-specific concerns can be anticipated. Animals will experience better wellbeing and potentially an extended longevity due in part to a lifelong preventive care and wellbeing programme when this includes voluntary medical behaviour training. In addition, (training staff for end-of-life decisions and training animals for euthanasia requires organization, leadership and team support. Designing for age-specific and adapting environments will facilitate care and treatments, making it easier and more comfortable for animals to participate in training sessions. Commitment and dedication of the animal care teams help provide animals with the best care possible at all stages of life.