SPCA Warns Against Permanent Reduction In Welfare Standards For Laying Hens After Bird Flu Arrives In New ZealandSPCA is urging New Zealanders to have their say on a proposal that would permanently reduce welfare protections for laying hens, reiterating that emergency preparedness must not become a pathway for lowering animal welfare standards. However, SPCA says a temporary response to an extraordinary situation should not result in a permanent reduction in welfare standards for hens. This is a step backwards for animal welfare," says Marie. We can design a temporary, targeted mechanism for periods of elevated H5N1 risk without permanently reducing our animal welfare standards.” "For a proposal with significant implications for animal welfare, it is important that decision-makers hear from a broad range of stakeholders.