Experimenting with animals

• • research on animals allowed if suffering is minimised and there are benefits to humans
  • UK has some of strictest animal research regulations, guided by Animals (scientific procedures) act, 1986 (ASPA)
  • research on great apes (orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos) banned in 1986
  • illegal if alternative method available and benefits outweigh potential suffering
• 3 R's


  Replacement

  Reduction

  Refinement
• Replacement


  where possible animals should be replaced with suitable alternatives
• Reduction


  if replacement is not possible then the number of animals used should be reduced to a minimum
• Refinement


  the methods used in breeding, accommodation and care must be refined to reduce pain, suffering, distress and lasting harm