Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the demographic characteristics that affect students’ attitudes regarding animal use. Incoming freshman (n = 136) completed a 20-question survey (Likert scale 1–5; range 20–100, summed and reported as a composite score) regarding perceptions of animal use, rights and welfare. Composite scores (CS) ranged from 54.8 to 81. Lower scores were consistent with animal rights positions and higher scores corresponded with animal use values. Composite scores were examined for correlation to varied student demographics. Major P < 0.01); career objective (P < 0.01), geographical region (P < 0.05) and history of animal ownership (P < 0.01) significantly affected CS. Livestock science majors (70.1 ± 1.1) scored higher than either equine (57.7 ± 1.3) or horticulture majors (57.9 ± 1.4). Students with livestock production career objectives scored higher (69.5 ± 1.6) than students interested in either equine production (61.5 ± 2.5) or veterinary medicine (61.2 ± 1.6). Commercial livestock ownership, reported by 39.9% of students, dramatically increased (P < 0.01) CS compared with students reporting equine, pet or no animal ownership. As part of the survey, students were asked if they perceived a difference between animal rights and welfare. Gender (P < 0.05), age (P < 0.05) and home residence (P < 0.01) all significantly influenced responses. Males, non-traditional students (age >21) and urban dwellers were less likely to differentiate between animal rights and welfare than females, 17–20 year olds and students from non-urban backgrounds. This study indicates most students CS are consistent with supporting animal welfare and use.
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