Attitudes of clients of Dutch pest controllers towards animal welfare in the management of liminal rodents

Abstract Rodent control tends to involve methods that cause animal suffering, but little attention has been paid the welfare implications of rodent control. The aim current study was gain insight into opinions and attitudes clients Dutch pest controllers, regarding liminal rodents, control, welfare. A better understanding their may contribute more ethical management programmes. An online survey among 248 controllers carried out. Respondents, especially those within agricultural sector, have a relatively negative attitude towards rats mice. Respondents in subgroup do not consider rodents important. They also think impact commonly used is limited, they low tolerance levels for presence rodents. from other sectors far positive mice, be greater importance, estimation show respondents latter similar compared participating previous survey. findings firstly provide useful information further development practical implementation preventive methods. Secondly, input animal-friendly an assessment framework support decision-making. Finally, can helpful research communication co-operation between professional clients.