One of the seven functions of the local ethical review process (ERP) in the UK is to:

consider the care and accommodation standards applied to all animals in the establishment, including breeding stock, and the humane killing of protected animals.

Laboratory animals spend most of their time in cages or pens, so their immediate environment and the care they receive both have a major impact on their welfare.

Standards of housing and care in Europe are governed by:
 

• Annex 2 of European Directive 86/609/EEC on the protection of animals used for experimental and other purposes
   
• Appendix A of European Convention ETS 123 for the protection of vertebrate animals used for experimental and other scientific purposes. This should be read in conjunction with the background information which relates to the species-specific provisions.

These, and UK Home Office Codes of Practice, specify the minimum standards required and it is important to seek ways of improving on these.

Good practice

The RSPCA's research animals department has produced a range of guidance notes (available on the right) setting out good practice for laboratory animal housing, husbandry and care for commonly used species. The guidelines are based on the scientific literature and current good practice.