For decades, Marina von Keyserlingk has asked a simple but profound question: How can we do better for the animals in our care?
That lifelong commitment to improving farm animal welfare has now earned national recognition. The University of British Columbia professor has received an appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada — one of Canada’s highest civilian honours.
The award recognizes her sustained contributions to animal welfare science and her leadership in reshaping how agriculture balances productivity, ethics and public trust.
Working at the Intersection
Animal welfare science remains a relatively young discipline. Under von Keyserlingk’s leadership, however, the field has expanded rapidly. She has helped connect research, on-farm practice and evolving societal expectations.
“We work towards trying to identify better ways of giving these animals a reasonably good life,” she said. “They are sentient beings. They can feel pain. So what can we do to try to improve their lives?”
Throughout her career, von Keyserlingk and her students have published more than 350 peer-reviewed papers. Legislators, industry groups and courts have cited their findings in policy decisions and codes of practice.
In addition to animal-focused research, she examines how public attitudes influence farming policy. She recognizes that conversations about food production extend far beyond the barn.
Research That Drives Change
Several of her studies have prompted measurable industry shifts.
In Canada, dairy producers once practiced tail docking because they believed it improved hygiene and reduced disease. Von Keyserlingk and her colleagues tested that assumption. Their research showed the practice offered no hygiene benefit, and industry leaders moved away from it.
Her work on public perceptions of dogs with docked tails and cropped ears also influenced change. Researchers found that people often view altered dogs as more aggressive or fearful. Policymakers later adjusted how agencies select service animals in the United States.
“These sorts of things where you’ve got work that creates policy change are incredibly rewarding,” she said.
Rooted in Agriculture
Although she built her career in academia, von Keyserlingk grew up in ranching country. Her father raised cattle, and she understands the weight of generational knowledge in agriculture.
“My father was a cattle rancher. He did things because that’s the way his dad told him to do things,” she said. “If we’re going to find solutions, we have to also engage in conversation. We can’t just criticize everybody all the time.”
She regularly reminds students that agriculture evolves slowly. Because reforms can affect livelihoods, discussions about welfare require respect, patience and dialogue.
A Commitment to Mentorship
While the Order of Canada marks a major milestone, von Keyserlingk often speaks most passionately about her students.
She recently received the Dr. Suning Wang Award for Outstanding Graduate Mentorship from the Canadian Association for Graduate Studies. Earlier in her career, she earned Killam Prizes recognizing excellence in research, teaching and mentorship.
Still, von Keyserlingk measures success differently.
“It’s contributing to the next generation that’s going to work towards improving the lives of animals in ways that are sustainable for farm animal agriculture,” she said. “That’s why I do what I do.”
The Order of Canada acknowledges a lifetime of influence. Yet von Keyserlingk continues her work every day — guiding students, conducting research and helping agriculture move forward with science and empathy.
