The Animal Welfare Institute is proud to announce that Dr. Robert Schmidt, a faculty member in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Utah State University, has accepted a position on our Scientific Committee. Dr. Schmidt is also an adjunct faculty member in the Departments of Forest Resources and Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning. He holds a Ph.D. in Biological Ecology from the University of California, Davis. His current research efforts include exotic and invasive species ecology and management, taboo areas within wildlife management, livestock predation management systems, and the sociology of wildlife biologists.
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Young Jersey cattle graze on lush pastures at the Cates Family Farm in Wisconsin (photo by Diane Halverson). At this Animal Welfare Approved farm, Kim and Dick Cates buy male calves from local dairy farmers and raise them for beef. The Cates’ dedication to family farming and sustainable land and forest management is well-known. Considering the welfare of their calves, who would have otherwise been sent to auction houses or intensive veal operations, is a natural part of their overall commitment to caring for the earth and its inhabitants.
The Animal Welfare Approved husbandry standards for all species, including cattle raised for beef, mandate the provision of an environment, housing and diet that is designed to allow animals to behave naturally. Each animal must be able to perform behaviors that promote their physiological and psychological health and well-being.