Environment
RSPCA welfare standards
for domestic/common ducks
21 February 2015
* indicates an amendment
Climate change and animal welfare
The issues relating to climate change have the potential to significantly affect the welfare of farm
animals. The RSPCA believes that it is now appropriate to react, think ahead, and consider what
can reasonably be done to mitigate, any negative effects that adverse weather conditions may
have/be having on the welfare of farm animals now, and in the future.
Examples of important considerations include:
The need to ensure that the farm buildings can withstand more severe weather conditions
will become more necessary.
Ensuring that ventilation systems are working efficiently will be even more important,
particularly as poultry are vulnerable to adverse temperature changes.
There may be reduced water availability for drinking, so ensuring that drinking water
systems are working efficiently will be even more important.