ANIMAL-WELFARE - INTRINSIC VALUE - INTEGR ITY DEVELOPMENTS IN THE APPRECIATION OF THE DOMESTIC-ANIMAL

Owing to selective breeding and conditioning to husbandry methods, dom estication has resulted in modification of the anatomy physiology, and behaviour of animals. Nevertheless, domestic animals cannot be regard ed and treated as artificial products. Public interest and concern abo ut the welfare of domestic animals has led to the recognition of the i ntrinsic value of animals and, in extension of this, to the ethical pr inciple of respect for the integrity of animals.The sensibility and ac ceptance of these principles by those involved in ethical decision-mak ing depends on their fundamental views about humans and the living wor ld. In order to make judgements about the use of; and interference wit h, animals, it is desirable to clarify these personal views. The princ iple of respect for the integrity of animals leads to considerations a nd arguments beyond animal health and welfare. This is shown by three examples: declawing of cats, caesarean section in cattle, and laying h ens in battery cages.