Ohioans’ Attitudes About Animal Welfare

This biennial survey measures the attitudes of Ohio residents about various animal welfare issues relating to food, agriculture, and the environment.

This survey was executed to “measure Ohioans’ attitudes on a variety of topics related to food, agriculture, and the environment, and to track changes in those attitudes over time.” The survey was first conducted in 2002.

Percent of respondents in agreement with the following statements:

• It is important to me that animals on farms are well cared for. (92%)
• Even though some farm animals are used for meat, the quality of their lives is important. (85%)
• The well-being of farm animals is just as important as the well-being of companion animals. (81%)
• Farm animals should be protected from physical pain. (75%)
• Humans should be able to use animals for any purpose. (22%)
• It is acceptable to use animals to grow organs for humans. (33%)
• In general, increased regulation of the treatment of animals in farming is needed. (35%)
• I am interested in learning more about farm animals. (33%)

Attitudes about companion animals:

• 62% of respondents have a companion animal.
• 54% disagreed that it is acceptable to discipline a companion animal by smacking or hitting, while 25% agreed and 21% were undecided.
• 36% agreed that euthanization of a companion animal is an acceptable way to solve behavioral problems.