What does humane care and use require in terms of housing and husbandry?

• A. Species-appropriate housing is not specified.
• B. Species-appropriate housing conditions, including space, temperature, humidity, lighting, ventilation, enrichment, and daily care aligned with the Guide.
• C. Housing is determined by convenience of staff.
• D. Enrichment is optional.

Answer: (B)

Species-appropriate housing is essential for humane care and use, because the environment must meet the animal’s physical and behavioral needs. This means housing conditions that are suitable for the species—giving enough space for normal movement and behavior, keeping temperature and humidity within comfortable ranges to avoid thermal or moisture stress, providing appropriate lighting and ventilation to support well-being, and offering enrichment to promote mental stimulation and reduce frustration. Daily care, including cleaning, feeding, monitoring, and veterinary oversight, is also necessary to maintain welfare. Standards like the Guide specify these elements to ensure housing and husbandry support health, reduce pain or distress, and enable natural behaviors. Statements implying the housing isn’t specified, is chosen for staff convenience, or that enrichment is optional do not align with these requirements.