Dr Enid Stiles
Co-Chair of the World Veterinary Association Animal Welfare Working Group
Dr Petra Sindern
Co-Chair of the World Veterinary Association Animal Welfare Working Group
Magda Lourenço
Executive Manager of the World Veterinary Association
Animals and humans live in intricate interdependence, and understanding animal sentience is key to supporting this relationship.
From companion animals that share our homes, to livestock that sustain our food systems and wildlife that enrich our ecosystems, the connection between people and animals is profound and ancient. Central to this relationship is the growing recognition of animal sentience — the understanding that animals are capable of perceiving positive and negative feelings. Because this connection is so close, emerging scientific methods can be used to assess the degree to which different animals experience sentience and how human actions can positively influence, support or show consideration for their wellbeing.
Coexistence shaped by science and history
Humans and animals have evolved side by side for thousands of years, forming relationships that have influenced the survival and development of both. Through shared environments and companionship, each has shaped the other’s behaviour, biology and ways of life. This long history of coexistence has deeply influenced human and animal physiology, psychology and cultures alike.
Central to this relationship is the growing recognition of animal sentience — the understanding
that animals are capable of perceiving positive and negative feelings
Modern science continues to reveal the effects of the human-animal bond. This relationship is not one-sided; it’s reciprocal, bringing measurable benefits to human wellbeing while reinforcing our appreciation for the value of animal life. Companion animals provide psychological comfort, reduce stress and foster social connection. Likewise, people who work closely with animals — whether in farming, research, conservation or clinical settings — often develop deep emotional ties that motivate responsible care and stewardship.
How veterinarians can advance understanding of animal sentience
Through their expertise and advocacy, veterinary professionals can bridge science and compassion, guiding society towards practices that respect the physical and emotional lives of animals. By promoting humane treatment, informed policy and public education, veterinarians help to ensure that the human-animal bond remains one of empathy and mutual benefit.
Recognising the growing body of scientific evidence and ethical reflection on animal sentience, the World Veterinary Association (WVA) is preparing a Position Statement on Animal Sentience. This document will outline the WVA’s commitment to advancing global understanding of animals as sentient beings and will help support policies, education and practices that safeguard their welfare.
For further reading about animal sentience, visit:
[1] Broom, 2019 ‘(Sentience means) having the awareness and cognitive ability necessary to have feelings.’
[2] CVMA, 2024 ‘Sentience means having the capacity to experience positive and negative feelings such as pleasure, excitement, fear, hunger, pain, and distress.’
