Reptile biologist honoured for welfare work
Reptile biologist and medical scientist, Clifford Warwick, has been made a Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, in honour of his scientific contributions to the welfare and conservation of reptiles.
On joining the centre, Clifford said, "Being invited to join the Centre in its aims is a true privilege, and one I know the Centre will not mind me using to promote greater respect and protection for reptiles in their natural habitats – as well as those confined to captivity."
Clifford has produced over 100 publications in various areas of research relating to reptile protection and human medicine, and is argued to be one of the world's leading communicators within his areas of expertise.
Commenting on his work, he said: "All too often…people either shun [reptiles] and care little for their welfare, or keep them as curiosities in the home…where [they] commonly languish in an unnatural, overly restrictive, and unsuitable environment."
Clifford is one of the only scientists to have received SAS-personnel training, which has allowed him to carry out some of his more high-risk research in remote jungles and deserts.
As well as being a biological consultant to fifteen scientific and animal welfare organisations worldwide, Clifford also provides regular specialist advice to veterinary surgeons and the human medical profession.
Fellowship offers from the Centre are rare, and Clifford will be joining an alumni of specially-nominated, elite academics who further the Centre's aims of "Pioneering ethical perspectives on animals through academic research, teaching, and publication."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
