Research animal science

Our research animals team is formed of specialist scientific staff. They work with those involved in the regulation, care and use of animals in experiments, both nationally and internationally, to develop and promote practical measures that will help to:

• ensure critical assessment, on a case by case basis, of the necessity and justification for animal use
   
• replace, or avoid, the use of animals
   
• reduce the numbers used
   
• refine experimental procedures, housing and care to improve welfare and to minimise and preferably avoid suffering.
   

For more information about the work of the RSPCA research animals team see who we are and what we do, along with the sections detailing our two major areas of work: developing processes of ethical review and promoting fuller implementation of the 3Rs.

Background

Laboratory animals are used for many different purposes in research and testing and each area of use raises specific ethical, welfare and scientific issues. We adopt a constructive, practical approach to the use of animals in experiments, judging every issue individually, critically questioning the necessity and justification for animal use and striving to reduce the conflict between the interests of animals and science as far as possible. Our ultimate aim is the replacement of animal experiments with humane alternatives. Until this can be achieved, we work to help ensure that animals used in research experience the minimum of suffering and have the best possible quality of life.