WSPA assesses the welfare of animals using the Five Freedoms (FAWC 2003):

• Freedom from hunger and thirst
• Freedom from discomfort
• Freedom from pain, injury, and disease
• Freedom from fear and distress
• Freedom to express normal behavior

These represent a useful "checklist" to quickly identify situations that compromise good animal welfare - that is, any situation that causes fear, pain, discomfort, injury, disease, or behavioral distress.

For more information, download the full WSPA policy booklet or read it online (below). 

The Aims of WSPA

Definitions

General Principles

Subject/Animal Specific Policies