A comparison of students’ perceptions of animal husbandry under human care

Abstract The relationship between humans and animals has a long history. Animals fulfill different roles in human life, which require different husbandry conditions. These husbandry conditions are subject to various regulations, which are overseen by different supervisory authorities. Because perceptions can shape public acceptance and regulatory practice, this raises the question of how different husbandry forms are perceived. To determine the question, a survey was conducted among students at Goethe University Frankfurt (Germany). Participants were asked to assess their concerns regarding conventional livestock farming, organic livestock farming, zoo animal husbandry, laboratory animal husbandry, and pet keeping. The findings indicate that conventional livestock farming, zoo animal husbandry, and laboratory animal husbandry are perceived as highly problematic. Conversely, organic livestock farming and pet keeping are regarded considerably more positively. The influence of gender and diet on the assessment is significant. The underlying reasons for these assessments were not queried, necessitating further research.