About the project
The decision-making process surrounding what food we should provide to our companion animals is becoming increasingly complex. Companion animal guardians may be concerned about the environmental impacts of the production of pet food, or worry about food safety issues and the health implications of particular diets. In addition, there are also significant ethical considerations for the other animals who are fed to companion animals. As a result, an increasing number of people are choosing to feed their companion animals a plant-based diet.
In 2021, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) highlighted that there were inconsistencies between plant-based pet foods and the Animal Welfare Act 2006, particularly regarding the duty to meet the animal’s ‘need for a suitable diet’ (BVA, 2021). However, what constitutes a ‘suitable’ diet remains a debatable question. This research project, generously funded by the Culture & Animals Foundation, is a response to the conflicting evidence on plant-based diets and the urgent need to consider the ethical and environmental impacts of consumption.
This project, led by Dr Emily Stone, aims to investigate the perspectives of veterinary professionals to explore current approaches to companion animal nutrition and veganism, as well as the barriers and enablers to making more ethical dietary choices.
Anthrozoology as Symbiotic Ethics 