AWI Quarterly Term Archive
Feature Article
Dissection Alternatives: Superior Learning Opportunities that Spare Animal Lives
In North America, animal dissection remains commonplace in K-12 science education. At a time when numerous interactive and immersive alternatives are available, it’s time to end this outdated practice once...
International Conservation Agenda in Flux amid Pandemic
Marine WildlifeThe COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions in place to prevent its spread have had a profound impact on the environment, in positive and negative ways: Greenhouse gases have declined sharply...
Keeping “Track” of Northern River Otters
Terrestrial WildlifeThe live capture of river otters is notoriously difficult, which explains the dearth of information about the ecology of the species. Traditional traps, including leghold and cage traps, can be...
Predator Protection Is Just Ecologic, Economic Logic
Terrestrial WildlifeHistorically, predators such as wolves, mountain lions, and bears were scorned and hunted with little remorse or restraint. They have been vilified as threats to livestock, companion animals, and us....
NEPA Rollback Endangers Communities and Wildlife
Terrestrial WildlifeIn mid-July, the Trump administration finalized its overhaul of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), enacting new regulations that weaken this key environmental law. Unprecedented in significance and scope, these...
USDA Steps Up—and Steps Back—with New License Renewal Rules
The US Department of Agriculture is making significant changes to the licensing requirements under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), and is increasing requirements for dogs at the premises of dealers,...
Handling and Training of Mice and Rats Results in Calmer Animals During Experimental Procedures
Animals in LaboratoriesFor most people with pets, handling and training their animals is important. Living with an “undomesticated” pet can be trying, especially when the day comes for a visit to the...
Coronavirus and Pets: Saving Our Companion Animals
Companion AnimalsWe have borne witness to the devastating effects of COVID-19, which is wreaking havoc throughout the United States and across the globe. While our attention has been focused on protecting...
AWI Releases Latest Update on Humane Slaughter Enforcement
Farmed AnimalsIn early 2008, a slaughterhouse investigation revealed multiple incidents of egregious cruelty to cattle at the Westland-Hallmark Meat Packing Co. in Chino, California, resulting in widespread public outrage and the...
Pandemic Presents Extra Challenges for Farm Animal Welfare
Farmed AnimalsMajor natural disasters and public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have the potential to impact farm animal welfare in many ways. For example, illness among farm workers can...