Keywords: Stress

A scientific review of current knowledge on the welfare of working dogs, taking into account ethical issues, their interactions with humans and the five freedoms. It notes that there have been real advances in the last decade and points towards some research priorities for the future

Answer to a question on the Government's intentions regarding the retention of  local abattoirs, in which the economic, environmental and animal welfare benefits of such establishments are evoked. 

Answer to a question on the infringement of the rules governing the slaughter of sheep, which the MEP considers to occur frequently during illegal ritual slaughter.

Scientific paper showing that the behavioural responses of cats in shelters vary according to sex and time of day, and are affected by noise levels. It advises that noise levels in shelters should be lowered to reduce fear and physiological responses in cats.

Scientific reviewl presenting the latest techniques for assessing the welfare of dogs involved in animal-assisted interventions in human therapy, based on the animal's perspective.

Written answer to a question on whether the derogation from the obligation to stun animals is applicable to the production of red label "large beef cattle". The answer is positive.

Report by the Senate Economic Affairs Committee proposing amendments to the bill to combat animal abuse.

Press release summarising the conclusions of the report by the Senate Economic Affairs Committee on the bill approved by the Assemblée Nationale to combat animal abuse. Changing the text of the legislation as drafted, it preserves the possibility of selling animals in pet shops, allows dolphinariums to continue their activity and establishes a list of animals authorised to participate in travelling circuses.

Scientific paper showing that growing pigs subjected to a musical stimulus for 8 days had a decreased stress response, and those subjected to the same musical stimulus for 60 days had an enhanced immune response. Pigs subjected to a noise stimulus were more aggressive and had a decreased immune response.

Scientific paper showing that stress hormone levels are lower in equine therapy horses ridden by mentally-impaired riders, presumably due to their lesser control over the horses, than by non-mentally impaired riders.