What are the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare?

For the past 150 years, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has provided care, comfort, and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario. As we reflect on this milestone anniversary, we want to share the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, which guide all that we do and impact the care our animals receive. 

The Ontario SPCA is committed to ensuring the humane treatment of all animals.  We believe that all animals should be living the healthiest life possible while in our care. This is accomplished by following the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare. 

The Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare 

The Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare were created by the Farm Animal Welfare Council in 1965 and are wildly used internationally. 

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst by ready access to fresh water and diet to maintain health and vigor. 
2. Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area. 
3. Freedom from pain, injury or disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment. 
4. Freedom to express normal behaviour by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind. 
5. Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering. The welfare of an animal includes its physical and mental state and we consider that good animal welfare implies both fitness and a sense of well-being. Any animal kept by man, must at least, be protected from unnecessary suffering. 

To learn more about our organization’s mission, vision, and values, visit our website here.