Zebrafish are a common experimental model, predominantly used during the larval stages of development. SPCA advocates that the definition of animal in the Animal Welfare Act 1999 be broadened to include larval fish. (See Animal Welfare Legislation and Standards for more information) (See The Five Domains for more information)

This range of mental states should be explicitly acknowledged in legislation. Sentience is the capacity of animals to perceive by their senses and, thereby, to consciously experience both negative and positive mental states (feelings, emotions and experiences) which are important to them and which influence their welfare. The inclusion of sentience in the Act with no accompanying definition makes the practical impact of its inclusion unclear.Īnimals are referred to as “it” throughout the Act, which objectifies animals and does not support the recognition of their sentience. SPCA advocates for a definition of sentience to be added to the Animal Welfare Act 1999 as well as an explicit acknowledgement of a range of mental states in animals, both positive and negative. Standards should aim to minimise the experience of avoidable negative emotions in animals (such as fear, anxiety, helplessness and loneliness) and require opportunities for normal behaviour and positive experiences (such as play, exploration, comfort and appropriate social interaction). This means that standards should be set to protect animals for their own sake rather than to cater to human interests such as export earnings or trading reputation. SPCA supports the consideration of animal sentience whenever standards are developed under this Act. SPCA supports the inclusion of the word “sentience” in the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and advocates for animal sentience to be considered when minimum standards and regulations are developed.Īnimal sentience was included in the Animal Welfare Act 1999 (the Act) in 2015. SPCA supports ongoing research into animal sentience to ensure that all animals are appropriately cared for. The evidence supporting the sentience of some animals such as insects or molluscs is not as clear. There is significant evidence supporting the sentience of mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and some decapod crustaceans and cephalopods (such as crayfish, crabs, octopus and squid). Recognising sentience means that SPCA acknowledges animals as individuals who have meaningful and unique emotions and experiences. ‘Animal sentience’ refers to the concept that animals are capable of having feelings, emotions, perceptions and experiences that matter to them. SPCA recognises animals to be sentient beings.

Meaning of sentience