Poster 22

Heifer International provides high-quality livestock, training and related support to men, women, youth and communities to assist with food security and to improve livelihoods. Heifer provides training and extension services so families can provide improved animal housing, management, breeding, nutrition and veterinary health. Animals receive humane handling and protection while providing food and other by-products. Training in agroecology integrates livestock production into sustainable farming systems, which protect and enhance the local environment while providing families with food and income. Animals become a vital part of family activities without causing a burden on farm resources and are integrated into the community.

Heifer International puts emphasis on the well-being of project animals. Animals are considered in the social environment of project families as they strive to become more self-sufficient and improve nutrition as well as income. Heifer's Animal Well-Being Recommendations and Guidelines are to be used for training project partners and field staff.

Heifer's focus is on holistic development integrating the resources of the community with training to all members to help them lift themselves up from poverty and hunger to a better life. Heifer International is also intentional about striking a balance between animal well-being and production. Animals produce at a level corresponding to the care and nutritional inputs they receive. However, Heifer projects are not necessarily designed to produce at maximum levels. Instead, farm animals become part of the family's process of living within the means of available natural and economic resources. Heifer International families do not normally have the means for optimum rations and housing. Instead, they live and produce within the limitations of the social and ecological environment of the area. Animals participate in this relationship with the family.