Sanctuaries as Living Laboratories: Exploring Animal Autonomy and Reproductive Ethics in Italian Multispecies Communities

In recent decades, growing interest in interspecies dynamics has sparked significant debate in the social sciences, challenging the traditional human/animal dichotomy. This shift, driven by the achievements of the animal rights movement advocating for the elimination of production cages, raises important questions on how to relocate livestock into environments that respect its needs. A key aspect of this transformation is the rise of animal sanctuaries, which have notably expanded in Italy, inspired by North American models. These sanctuaries prioritize animals' intrinsic agency, in contrast to the controlled breeding systems typical of agricultural settings. As living laboratories, many sanctuaries opt for sterilization to prevent overpopulation, raising ethical concerns about bodily autonomy and reproductive rights. While intended to prevent exploitation, this approach prompts reflection on whether sterilization itself violates animal autonomy or is necessary to prevent further harm. These dilemmas highlight the existing tension between promoting animal well-being and respecting their bodily integrity. Moreover, the concept of reproductive rights for animals, traditionally reserved for humans, challenges conventional ideas of autonomy and consent in multispecies communities. By addressing these complex issues, sanctuaries offer a valuable platform for rethinking ethical human/animal relationships and exploring how to best respect animal agency within frameworks of care.