The Bubonic Plague, Swine Flu, Covid-19; throughout history, different diseases have originated from animals and caused havoc in human societies. Around 60% of known pandemic diseases in recent decades and a disturbing 75% of all emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic in origin – this means they are transmitted from unhealthy animals to people, evidence of the interdependence of the health of our animal kingdom and that of humans in a way that is hard to ignore or protest.
The Captive Animal Enrichment Project (CAEP), a South African animal welfare start-up, recognises the importance of this relationship and is wholly committed to bringing opportunities for improved balance and healing to animals living in captivity. We do this through the practice of zoopharmacognosy; the process of allowing animals to self-select the compounds they need for healing and well-being, just as they would if they were roaming and foraging freely.
What are zoonotic diseases?
Zoonotic diseases are those that can be spread from unhealthy animals to humans. This transmission can occur through direct contact with infected animals, the ingestion of contaminated animal products, or exposure to certain species, like ticks and mosquitoes who carry and transmit parasites, bacteria and viruses.
The recent Covid-19 pandemic serves as a harsh reminder of the devastation caused by zoonotic diseases, with millions of infections and fatalities reported globally. During 2019 and 2020 (mostly) it is hard to find a household that was not seriously negatively impacted by essentially one or a number of unhealthy animals. Very few of us lived anywhere near these unhealthy animals, yet we were all still very much affected by them.
Other familiar and more recent zoonotic diseases include Ebola, Avian Influenza (H5N1), and Lyme disease. These illnesses can cause serious health problems, ranging from minor symptoms to life-threatening conditions.
Factors contributing to animal illness
Several factors influence the occurrence and transmission of animal illness and disease, which eventually affects human health. These include the following:
- Environmental factors – Habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution all contribute to increased animal illness and disease. The degradation of natural ecosystems brings wild animals closer to human populations, increasing the risk of disease transmission. Climate change affects ecosystems and has the potential to upset the delicate balance between host animals and diseases. Pollution, such as water contamination, can promote the spread of disease-causing organisms.
- Human-animal interaction – Close contact with animals in a variety of contexts can aid in the spread of diseases. Farms and livestock markets provide potential for disease transmission from animals to people. Similarly, pet ownership, especially when adequate sanitation and hygiene measures are not followed, can result in zoonotic disease transmission. Encouraging responsible interactions and hygiene behaviours is critical for reducing the likelihood of dangerous disease transmission.
- Animal agriculture – Intensive farming practices, which are frequently characterised by overcrowding and inadequate biosecurity measures, lead to disease onset and spread. Factory farming, in particular, presents substantial concerns by allowing viruses to spread and potentially infect humans. Sustainable farming practices and higher animal welfare standards can significantly reduce the danger of zoonotic illnesses.
Preventing animal disease
Preventing zoonotic illnesses requires a collaborative approach that considers both human and animal health. Here are some key metrics:
1. Surveillance and early detection – Monitoring animal health and adopting early warning systems are critical for averting outbreaks. Early diagnosis of diseases in animals can not only safeguard animal populations, but also provide early warning indications for human health.
2. ‘One Health’ approach – The World Health Organisation’s ‘One Health’ approach acknowledges the connection of human, animal, and environmental health. Medical practitioners, veterinarians, environmental scientists, and legislators can work together to develop comprehensive disease prevention, surveillance, and control methods to optimise the health of humans, animals and ecosystems sustainably.
3. Promote responsible animal care – Responsible animal guardianship, effective sanitation measures, and excellent hygiene habits are essential for reducing the risk of zoonotic infections. This involves routine veterinarian examinations, immunisation programmes, and suitable waste management methods.
The role of Captive Animal Enrichment Project
The CAEP aims to actively address animal illness and wellbeing among captive animal populations, through bringing medicinal natural materials for animals to self-select what they need. Our emphasis on zoopharmacognosy benefits the general health and welfare of these animals.
We promote a holistic approach to animal care by allowing captive animals to engage in natural behaviours and make choices that could at the very least reduce unhealthy stress levels and at most could heal them. We bring plant materials, plant derivatives and vital natural compounds to captive animals, allowing them to instinctively seek out what they need to promote health and minimise disease and illness.
In addition to these initiatives, the CAEP contributes to education and campaigning. By engaging with animal guardians within captive facilities as we work, and via every channel available to us speaking out in regard to animal welfare, zoonotic diseases, and responsible practices, we encourage individuals and communities to take action to avoid the spread of zoonotic diseases.
Throughout history, the world has been repeatedly battered by zoonotic diseases that grow into worldwide pandemics. It’s critical to recognise the link between animal illness and human health. We can work towards a healthier future for both humans and animals by understanding the causes of these illnesses and promoting animal welfare.
The CAEP needs your support. Let us strive together to create a peaceful cohabitation with animals and a safer world for every organism. Please contact us today if you’d like to donate or get involved.
