A study on clinical factors affecting animal welfare in veterinary clinics

This study aims to evaluate several key factors affecting the welfare of cats and dogs in veterinary clinics in Turkey. The main factors influencing welfare in the clinical setting were quantitatively analyzed and included: physical conditions (auditory stimulation, thermal comfort, humidity, etc.), managerial practices (protocols, in-clinic communication, and staff knowledge/experience), clinical procedures (use of analgesics and anesthetics, physical restraint, species-specific practices), and social factors (pet owner-veterinarian interactions, fear of the clinic, social stress). The research was conducted through an online survey with the participation of 412 veterinarians from different cities. Survey questions were examined under four thematic groups. The findings demonstrated that the adequacy of the clinical environment, standardized protocols, and effective communication are primary factors that enhance animal welfare. Furthermore, it was determined that pet owners’ attitudes, fear of the clinic, and social stress also have significant effects on welfare. This study emphasizes the need to develop a holistic approach to welfare in veterinary clinics, offering comprehensive improvement strategies at structural, managerial, and behavioral levels.