La transversalidad del bienestar animal en la formación de Medicina Veterinaria: percepciones estudiantiles en una universidad de la ciudad de Quito

Abstract

Abstract: The present research analyzes the transversality of animal welfare in the training of veterinary physicians in Quito, evaluating the coherence between curricular design and student perceptions. Utilizing a phenomenological-interpretative approach, students demonstrated conceptual awareness regarding animal sentience; however, significant knowledge deficits were identified concerning real-world clinical practice. The findings reveal that animal welfare remains a fragmented subject, with pedagogical implications heavily influenced by the hidden curriculum and faculty modeling. This discrepancy underscores the necessity for a fundamental paradigm shift toward a longitudinal curriculum that incorporates animal ethics starting from the basic sciences. Furthermore, this study proposes a strategic line for the territorialization of veterinary education through the "One Welfare" paradigm, which integrates professional identity and social responsibility within the context of Ecuadorian megabiodiversity. It suggests a trajectory toward "transversality" defined here as an attitudinal renewal within the academy for delivering a medically, technically, and ethically sound practice.