Dromedary Camel Behavior and Welfare

The assessment of welfare requires a multidimensional approach determining the actual welfare of animals, including both physical and mental states, using environmental-and animal-based measures. This chapter aims at critically reviewing the literature to present the last updates on how to assess welfare in dromedary camels. A protocol for assessing their welfare status when kept in semi-intensive and intensive systems was recently developed, adapting the AWIN protocol to the uniqueness of dromedary camels and adding some positive welfare indicators. In the protocol, data related to housing, feeding, health, and behaviour of dromedary camels are collected at three levels of assessment: caretaker, herd, and animal. Data are then aggregated to obtain overall assessment indices and classify the camel units/pens/farms according to their welfare level. Using this protocol, welfare issues can be identified and recommendations to enhance camel welfare provided. The protocol, however, requires further refine-ment and validation. To date, space allowance, shaded space, cleanliness of bedding, water management, and infectious disease prevention were the major welfare hazards for camels kept in intensive systems, while poor health and bad handling were reported for camels kept in extensive systems. Overall, more evidence-based studies are needed before being able to suggest welfare standards for dromedary camels.