{
  "id": 5612679,
  "title": "From pets to zoos: How students perceive animal husbandry",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/from-pets-to-zoos-how-students-perceive-animal-husbandry",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-09-04T18:20:02.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Phys.org",
    "slug": "phys-org",
    "url": "https://phys.org/news/2026-09-pets-zoos-students-animal-husbandry.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A study at Goethe University Frankfurt examined how students perceive various forms of animal husbandry, including conventional livestock farming, organic farming, zoos, laboratories, and pets. The research, published in npj Veterinary Sciences, surveyed 1,143 university students from diverse disciplines. The findings reveal significant differences in public perceptions across these practices. Conventional livestock farming, laboratory animal research, and zoos were generally viewed more critically, while pet ownership and organic farming received more favorable ratings. Notably, students rated zoo animal husbandry more harshly than conventional farming, despite stricter regulations and inspections in zoos. Factors such as gender, dietary choices, and general knowledge about animal care influenced perceptions. The study highlights the need for improved public education and communication to bridge gaps in understanding regarding animal husbandry practices.",
  "summary": "Animals fulfill a wide range of roles in human society. They provide food, contribute to scientific research, live alongside people as companion animals, and play important roles in education, conservation, research and public engagement through zoos.",
  "key_points": [
    "Students view conventional livestock farming and zoos more critically than pets and organic farming.",
    "Gender, dietary choices, and animal care knowledge influence students' perceptions.",
    "Strict zoo regulations and inspections receive less favorable ratings from students."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}