How can we influence human behaviour for better welfare? - Part one

2018 Discussion Forum

Speaker: Toby Parks, Behavioural Insight Team

The welfare and well-being of animals is a shared responsibility by all those who care for them, and the ability to teach and persuade owners, carers and handlers to follow best practice is now a crucial part of a veterinary professional’s role.

In this session, experts in human behaviour change share their experiences in this fascinating field of work. You will learn about what motivates human behaviour, explore innovative ways of influencing behaviour, and hear about an equine project that put these tools into practice to improve animal welfare.

The EAST document can be found here: https://www.behaviouralinsights.co.uk...

Questions to consider whilst watching:

1. Is it part of a veterinary professional’s job to influence their clients, and to what extent should it form part of practice?
2. Could behaviour change be taught in veterinary schools?
3. How can these tools be used to tackle issues such as obesity and uptake of vaccines?
4. How can vets confront welfare issues without alienating clients?
5. What socio-cultural factors could be at play when we are trying to get owners/animal carers to change their behaviours?
6. How can we suggest behaviour changes to animal keepers in ways that are easy, attractive, social and timely?
7. When you recommend a course of action to an owner/animal carer that requires a human behaviour change, e.g. compliance with medication, what one thing could you do to make this change easier for them?
8. Are there any incentives you can use to help your clients engage with their behaviour change? For example, cheaper insurance for animals that have regular vaccines etc

Don’t forget to download our reflective learning guide which will help you get the most out of our sessions: https://www.animalwelfarefoundation.o...

This was filmed by The Webinar Vet: http://www.thewebinarvet.com/