Animal Ethics L5

Question 1

Why do we primarily use animals for testing?

Answer 1

There is no alternative and the law requires it. We also use people but first we must test toxicology.

Question 2

What are the three Rs used in research?

Answer 2

• Replacement - Do not use an animal if there is an alternative.
• Reduction - Use the smallest number of animals possible.
• Refinement - Do everything you can to make the lives of research animals as painless, pleasant and stress-free as possible.

Question 3

What are the two tiers of regulation for testing?

Answer 3

Local and National

Question 4

How is approval for testing got?

Answer 4

Projects must be approved by an institution’s Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB), who will also advise the principal investigator on matters relating to animal welfare and the 3Rs. The project must then be approved by the Home Office, who will carry out a harm/benefit analysis to assess whether the expected benefits outweigh any possible adverse effects to the animal. The work of the Home Office in processing applications and inspecting animal facilities is scrutinised by the Animals in Science Committee, which is made up of a diverse membership including scientists, animal advocates, lay persons and a vet.

Question 5

How are licenses granted for testing?

Answer 5

• the research cannot be done using non-animal methods
• the minimum number of animals will be used
• dogs, cats or primates are only used when other species are not suitable
• any discomfort or suffering is kept to a minimum by appropriate use of anaesthetics or pain killer
• the potential results are important enough to justify the use of animals (the harm-benefit analysis)
• researchers and technicians conducting procedures have the necessary training, skills and experience
• research premises have the necessary facilities to look after the animals properly (as laid down in a Home Office Code of Practice).

Question 6

What are the dates involved in banning animal testing in England?

Answer 6

Tests on animals involving tobacco have been banned in Britain since 1997. Testing cosmetic products and their ingredients on animals was banned in the UK in 1998 and across the EU in 2013). Research on great apes (orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees and bonobos) was banned in 1986

Question 7

What animals are used for testing?

Answer 7

98% of research is carried out on rats, mice and fish. Less than 0.5% of research is carried out on dogs, cats and monkeys. Dogs, cats, monkeys and horses have special protections, meaning they can only be used if no other animals, such as a mouse or fish, will suffice.

Question 8

Why does the UK have some of the strictest animal research regulations?

Answer 8

Due to the Animals (Science Procedures) Act, 1986.