Susan Hazel - A Framework to Enable a More Collaborative Approach to Animal Management

Animal management can be defined as the process influencing interactions among and between animals (especially companion animals), urban and natural environments and people to maximise benefits and minimise costs to all. It attempts to balance the needs of animals with the needs of people and the environment using the best available evidence. Traditionally animal management took a harm reduction approach, for example reducing dog attacks and nuisance caused by dogs and cats, but newer strategies emphasise a positive approach to improve welfare in animals and humans. Many groups and organisations work in animal management, with no consistently collaborative approach resulting in wastage of resources and reduced efficiency of programs. An organisational typology approach can be used to map current groups and organisations, including their structures and goals. This presentation will argue the benefits of developing an organisational typology and steps to improve animal management across Australia.