Working animals and ethical aspects involved: a critic review

Abstract

The development of the working animals welfare also promotes the welfare of the human beings involved with their utilization. Nevertheless, the veterinarians (DVM) are on the fringes of that process. The present paper focuses on ethical issues involved in the use of working animals, with emphasis on draught animals utilized in Brazil, reinforcing the importance of DVM in this theme. First, we briefly explain the history of domestication and use of animals for work. Second, we list the economic, environmental and social importance of this usage. Third, we present their more common working conditions. Fourth, we show the main ethical questions and philosophical systems involved. Finally, alternatives and improvements in the use of working animals were mentioned. Keywords: Working animals, animal welfare, ethics, rural extension, draught.