The Animal Tracker (Wave 2 – March 2009)

The first survey (Wave 1, 2008) included sixteen questions; the Wave 2 survey repeated six questions from Wave 1. In summary, the most recent survey continues to show strong support for the protection of all animals, although in some instances that support decreased slightly compared with the Wave 1 results.

The following summary is excerpted from the full report:

• 67% of U.S. adults have a “favorable” opinion of the animal protection (AP) movement, which is ranked third among the causes/movements listed.
• 32% give AP groups “significant” credibility regarding information about animal welfare, ranked second only to veterinarians (but comparable to family/friends).
• 52% have talked or heard about AP “frequently” or “occasionally” in the past three months.
• 79% or more believe the welfare and protection of animals is “very” or “somewhat” important for all of the animal situations listed.
• Perceived adequacy of laws protecting animals varies by type of animal, ranging from 23% “adequate” (for animals in laboratories) to 60% “adequate” (for companion animals).
• 31% of U.S. adults would “strongly support” a law requiring that farmed animals are given enough space to behave naturally.