Keywords: Consciousness

Article summarizing recent scientific findings on animal consciousness. Although studies on bees, cuttlefish and fish point to signs of consciousness, the latter's acceptance as evidence would have major implications for neuroscience and animal welfare. Meanwhile, the lack of a unified theory or precise definition of animal consciousness complicates its  assessment.

Review article tracing the evolution of opinion on pain in crustaceans over time. There are numerous scientific studies that discuss indications,  but not incontrovertible proof, that Crustaceans are sensitive to pain. The difficulty in proving beyond doubt that Crustaceans experience pain leads some experts continue to question this, while others invoke the precautionary principle. This principle was applied in 2022, leading to the inclusion of decapod crustaceans in the UK's Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act of that year.

New EFSA opinion on the welfare of horses at slaughter for human consumption. The opinion details three phases: pre-stunning, stunning and bleeding. It identifies potential hazards and describes stunning and killing methods (captive bolt, firearm, lethal injection), and proposes measures to assess animal welfare consequences. Practices deemed unacceptable on welfare grounds are also listed.

New EFSA Opinion on the welfare of horses during killing for purposes other than human consumption, whether indivudally or on a large scale. The Opinion details three phases: pre-stunning, stunning and bleeding. It identifies potential hazards and describes stunning and killing methods (captive bolt, firearm, lethal injection). Potential risks, preventive measures and animal welfare measurement criteria are described, along with practices deemed unacceptable on welfare.

Analysis of surveys carried out among professionals in the equestrian sector, revealing widespread recognition of equine sentience (99.9% of respondents). Two Subjects emerge: sentience is a pathway to understanding the mental state, welfare and well-being of horses, and humans have a moral obligation to consider it.

Consensus sur la définition du bien-être animal positif

Article exploring the evolution of the concept of animal welfare and the scientific basis for consideration of animals' cognitive and emotional capacities.

Synthesis describing the essential role played the Apis mellifera bee in pollination and Adaptation of the animal to the environment and as a biomarker for environmental quality. Although they are often overlooked in terms of welfare, honey bees could be included in the five-domain model, which would recognize their capacity for emotional and the importance of defining and promoting practices to improve their welfare.

Study evaluating the impact of slaughter methods on stress in carp measured using biochemical parameters in the blood. The recommended method to reduce stress is that of percussion followed by destruction of the brain.

Article exploring the tensions between the requirement in EC Regulation 1099/2009 to monitor the state of consciousness of cattle during slaughter, and the fluidity of the industrial process in abattoirs. It highlights the difficulties of implementation, particularly for ritual slaughter, and the strategies developed to reconcile regulatory requirements and productivity.