Basil Capes was associated with the Animal Welfare Foundation of Canada for many years, serving as both Secretary and President of this organization.
Basil was an architect by profession who had a passionate and abiding interest in animal welfare. In addition to his main architectural projects, he often designed animal shelters for Humane Societies and donated his time in this respect. He also donated books and papers on animal welfare to the University of Guelph Library.
When he passed away, his family and friends decided to establish a lecture series in his name, with funding support from the AWFC. Below is a list of past lecture topics:
- 2014
Dr. Sandra Olsen, Research Associate in the Biodiversity Institute
University of Kansas
The Evolution of the Horse-human Relationship through Time - 2009
Dr. Peter Singer, Princeton University
Animal and Ethics - 2007
Dr. Michael Appleby, Word Society for the Protection of Animals
Why should we care about animals during times of crisis? - 2006
Dr. Bernard Rollin, Colorado State University
Emerging Social Ethics for Animals - 2004
Professor Vince Molony, University of Edinburgh
Pain in Farm Animals: An investigation of how bad it is and what can be done about it - 2002
Dr. Bo Algers, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Welfare and Efficiency: Can They be Put Together in Piglet Production?: A Swedish Example