Abstract

Animal welfare has emerged as a critical concern in contemporary society, reflecting a growing recognition of animals as sentient beings deserving of ethical consideration. This article provides a comprehensive review of current strategies for enhancing animal welfare, explores the challenges facing the field, and suggests future directions for research and practice. Drawing upon interdisciplinary perspectives from veterinary science, ethology, ethics, and public policy, we examine key factors influencing animal welfare, including housing conditions, husbandry practices, transportation, and slaughter methods. We also discuss the role of stakeholders such as governments, industry, veterinarians, and consumers in promoting animal welfare. Finally, we highlight emerging issues such as the impact of climate change, emerging infectious diseases, and advances in biotechnology on animal welfare, and propose innovative approaches to address these challenges.