Scientists at the universities of Louisville and Kentucky say research on rats and mice is essential to finding treatments for spinal cord injuries in humans.
But they said they take several steps to ensure animal welfare, including:
Considering whether the potential benefits of research warrant the use of animals. Dr. William King, UofL's assistant vice president for research services and the school's attending veterinarian, said spinal cord research generally meets that criterion because people stand to benefit greatly if experimental treatments work. But he added that researchers must have good, carefully planned studies, and show that they aren't using animals unless they must.
Reducing pain and suffering. In spinal cord research, rodents may undergo surgery that creates spinal cord injuries. Researchers said they use anesthetics and medications to reduce pain. While the vast majority of animals are ultimately euthanized, some are assigned to different studies and some of UofL's unharmed animals are adopted by staff members.
Monitoring daily care. Rats and mice at UofL, for example, are placed in groups in box-type cages that are frequently cleaned and filled with wood-chip bedding that can be used for burrowing.
Policing themselves. Under federal regulations, every institution that uses animals for research, education or teaching must establish an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. Such committees ensure that researchers comply with laws regarding animal welfare. People witnessing abuse of animals in research are encouraged to report their concerns.
Getting federal oversight. Research sites must register with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and are inspected by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to ensure that they are following federal laws on humane animal treatment.
Seeking outside accreditation. Both UofL and UK are accredited by the Association for the Assessment & Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International. This voluntary process includes site visits in which research programs must demonstrate that they not only meet the minimum standards required by law, but also “achieve excellence in animal care and use.” UofL has been continuously accredited since 1965, UK since 1966.