Veterinary Education Perspectives on Animal Welfare and Its Impact on Social Awareness

Objective: To analyze the contribution of Veterinary Education (UAMVZ-UAZ) to animal welfare and its impact on social awareness, through integration into the curriculum, the establishment of regulations and research, to promote ethical treatment of animals. Theoretical framework: The theoretical framework focuses on the importance of animal welfare and the need to train conscious and responsible professionals in the veterinary field, as well as the role of educational institutions in promoting ethical treatment of animals. Method: A qualitative methodological approach was used that covered three key areas: student training, through data collection to explore perceptions and practices on animal welfare; regulations, through documentary analysis of UAMVZ policies and protocols; and research, through the review of publications and ongoing projects on animal welfare. Results and discussion: They indicate that UAMVZ has effectively integrated animal welfare into its curriculum, which has led to the training of more conscious and responsible professionals. The policies in place reflect a strong institutional commitment, and the research conducted has raised social awareness about the ethical treatment of animals. Research implications: UAMVZ is positioned as a benchmark in the promotion of animal welfare, positively influencing the training of professionals and raising awareness in the community. This underlines the importance of prioritizing animal welfare in all areas of society. Originality/value: The study highlights the relevance of integrating animal welfare into veterinary education, providing a model that can be replicated in other institutions, and emphasizes the impact that education and research can have on social awareness regarding the ethical treatment of animals.