“Above all, my constant endeavour will be to ensure the health and welfare of animals committed to my care.”
Veterinary professionals and their representative bodies have considerable influence over animal welfare standards, farming policy and public debate. Their responsibilities extend beyond the treatment of individual animals to the policies and systems that affect millions of animals.
The Veterinary Profession and Pig Welfare
Veterinary organisations can play a powerful role in improving the lives of pigs. Their scientific advice, ethical positions and policy recommendations influence governments, farmers and the wider public. However, veterinary policies do not always reflect the strength of the available animal welfare evidence. Pigs Protection examines where the profession provides leadership, where it falls short, and how veterinary policy can better protect pigs.
The Hidden Truth Behind Pig Farming and Meat Production?
In the film below, Pigs Protection Chair Dr Steven McCulloch explores who really controls animal welfare and how veterinary organisations can influence the treatment of farmed animals. The film draws on his research at the London School of Economics and Political Science into veterinary policy, professional power and animal welfare.
Further Reading
Explore further research, commentary and campaigns examining the role of veterinary organisations in pig welfare policy.
The veterinary profession must condemn intensive pig farming
Steven McCulloch. Veterinary Record, October 2024.
Vets must support meat reduction for the benefit of people, the planet and animals
Steven McCulloch. Veterinary Record, January 2026.
A call for scrutiny of the veterinary profession
Steven McCulloch. LSE British Politics and Policy Blog, March 2026.
Letter to the American Veterinary Medical Association
Pigs Protection, 29 April 2026.
Who speaks for pigs? The Farm Bill, Proposition 12, and capture of the US veterinary profession
Steven McCulloch. LSE British Politics and Policy Blog, May 2026.
Peter Singer calls for resignations as the American Veterinary Medical Association backs legislation to keep pigs in gestation crates
Steven McCulloch. LinkedIn, July 2026.