sen·tient /ˈsen(t)SH(ē)ənt/ adjective 1. able to perceive or feel things.

I recently presented at the Institute of Critical Animal Studies (ICAS) conference on “Recognizing Non-Human Animals as Sentient Beings”. I enjoyed this conference because it presented an opportunity to take a more gentle approach to introducing concepts that I commonly speak on– cognition, emotion, decision-making, autonomy, agency and intrinsic motivation in respect to dog behavior and animal welfare. The talk was well received, and the ensuing questions were thought provoking, so I thought I would share the experience with the readers of Pets After Dark.

What is Sentience?

The definition of sentience is quite basic; the ability to feel pain and pleasure. 

The concept of “sentience” was first presented by philosophers in the 1630’s and re-emerged in popularity in the 1970’s through animal advocates such as Peter Singer, whom I met while presenting at the PHAIR conference at the University of Edinburgh.

 The Five Freedoms

The Five Freedoms were established in 1965 in the UK by the Farm Animal Welfare Council to ensure ethical and humane treatment of farm animals and have since grown to include all animals, globally. 

The Five Freedoms:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst
2. Freedom from discomfort
   
3. Freedom from pain, injury or disease
4. Freedom to express normal behavior
5. Freedom from fear or distress  

During the Q & A period following my ICAS presentation, I was asked, “What is normal behavior?” (#4) This question raised some interesting points. How do we define normal behavior in another species?

I thought of a recent road trip I had taken with a friend who is knowledgeable on cattle farming. As we drove by a field of cows, I noticed one cow had separated from the group. My first thought was that this cow was sad. I asked my friend if this is “normal cow behavior.”  

His reply was insightful.

“Well, at this time of year, it is normal for male cows to separate from the group. They have mated, or not, and are either satisfied or frustrated.” (I am guessing, respectively).  “The farmer who owns the cattle would not likely be concerned. Having said this, not all males would separate – it depends on the cow.”

His reply brings to light the importance of recognizing traits inherent in a species as well as individual characteristics. Traits are derived from genetic or inherited qualities, thus are often unchanging in their impact on emotions, reactions and behavior, while characteristics may be more flexible and change as the individual goes through different life stages and experiences. Characteristics are considered more individual in nature and can provide a means of distinguishing one being from another. 

The Movement Beyond Sentience

While recognizing that animals feel pain and pleasure provides a strong foundation in treating animals as sentient beings, is it enough? 

When we look at emotions and cognition as leading determinants of behaviors, instead of simply analyzing the behavior itself, we begin to see the individuality within the species.

Features in the consciousness, such as self-awareness, decision-making, intrinsic motivation, problem solving, memory and intentional thoughts and actions may not be a requirement for sentience; however, by observing and exploring these features, we can move beyond simply acknowledging the ability to feel pain and pleasure. 

Cognition and Emotions

Studying cognition and emotion in animals is a good start to gaining a deeper understanding of the species and individuals within the larger group. 

Although quantitative studies and peer reviewed papers provide scientific evidence of cognition and emotion, qualitative studies generated from observation and non-invasive practices performed in the natural environment, provide an enormous amount of knowledge and insight to support scientific findings.

Wildlife

Wild species are an integral part of our ecosystem. To ensure wildlife is treated humanely, we need to consider not only what we are providing them with, but also what we may be depriving them of. Maintaining their natural environments and leaving them undisturbed to thrive is not only humane, but compassionate and ethically sound. 

Providing enrichment to animals in captivity, as well as replicating their natural habitat can encourage “normal behaviors.”  

Urban Wildlife