Animal welfare has come a long way from simply focusing on physical health and basic needs. Today, professionals and pet owners alike are recognising that mental wellness is just as important for animals as it is for humans. One of the most widely adopted frameworks for understanding and improving animal welfare is the Five Domains Model — a science-based approach that helps us assess not only how animals live, but how they feel.
Understanding the Five Domains Model
Developed by Professor David Mellor, the model explores five key areas that influence an animal’s wellbeing: nutrition, environment, health, behaviour and mental state. The first four domains focus on physical aspects of care, while the fifth — mental state — reflects how these experiences shape an animal’s emotions. By considering all five, we move beyond survival toward genuine quality of life.
Applying the Model in Everyday Pet Care
In pet and companion animal care, the Five Domains Model can guide everything from feeding and housing choices to training and enrichment. For example, providing balanced nutrition (Domain 1) and a comfortable, species-appropriate environment (Domain 2) reduces stress and supports emotional stability. Encouraging natural behaviours (Domain 4) — such as foraging, play or social interaction — promotes positive emotions like curiosity, comfort and contentment (Domain 5).
Benefits for Pet Owners and Professionals
By using this model, animal care professionals, shelter staff and pet owners can better identify areas where an animal’s welfare might be compromised. It encourages more empathetic and evidence-based decision-making, leading to improvements in both physical and psychological health. The result? Happier, more relaxed and better-adjusted animals.
Building a Culture of Compassion
The Five Domains Model reminds us that good animal care isn’t just about preventing suffering — it’s about promoting positive experiences. Whether you’re caring for a dog, reptile, bird or small mammal, integrating mental wellness into husbandry practice helps animals lead fuller, more enriching lives.
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