Animal Learning and Training: Implications for Animal Welfare

KEY POINTS A definition of animal welfare is the state of the individual as it attempts to cope with its environment. Welfare concerns all of the mechanisms for coping, involving physiology, behavior, feelings, and pathologic responses. When training programs are not in place the animal’s welfare could be impaired. Some of the behaviors an animal exhibits can be used to gain insight into how the animal feels about the environment, caretakers, and procedures. Many contemporary animal trainers and care specialists focus on building relationships using positive reinforcement