Healthier Farm Animals, Healthier Communities

Cape Town, 30 September 2026 – As World Farm Animals Day approaches on 2 October, global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS is highlighting the important link between farm animal welfare, public health and resilient food systems.

Scientific evidence continues to demonstrate that the health of people, animals and the environment are interconnected. Improving the welfare of farm animals and reducing stocking densities can help reduce disease risks, decrease reliance on antibiotics and contribute to safer, more sustainable food production.

With South Africans increasingly concerned about public health and the impact of climate-related challenges on agriculture, FOUR PAWS is urging consumers, industry and policymakers to recognise animal welfare as part of the solution.

"The way we treat farm animals has implications far beyond the farm gate," says Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa. "Animals that are raised in better welfare conditions and at lower stocking densities are healthier and less vulnerable to disease. By prioritising animal welfare, we can help build healthier communities, strengthen food systems and reduce risks to public health."

The organisation notes that improving welfare standards can support animal health while helping to eliminate the need for routine antibiotic use, an important consideration as antimicrobial resistance continues to be recognised as a growing global health concern.

"World Farm Animals Day is a reminder that animal welfare is not only an ethical issue but also a public health issue," says Miles. "Healthy animals, healthy people and a healthy environment go hand in hand. Creating a better future starts with ensuring farm animals are treated with care, dignity and respect."

This World Farm Animals Day, FOUR PAWS encourages South Africans to learn more about where their food comes from and support farming systems that prioritise animal welfare, sustainability and responsible food production.

For more information, please visit our website at www.four-paws.org.za