Where do we see animals being used in science? Often, in science classrooms, we will dissect animals- rats, rabbits, pigs, frogs, etc. The Canadian Council on Animal Care developed a framework known as the “3 R’s” to assess teh necessity for the use of animals in science. The R’s are:
- Replacement
- Reduction
- Refinement
Replacement
Replacement means avoiding the use of, or replacing the use of, animals. Examples of replacements could be using computer models, using information that has already been created (in the form of textbooks or articles) or using anatomical models. Each of these methods means that an animal does not need to be used.
Reduction
Reduction means using fewer animals for scientific experiments. This means sharing information already obtained using animals with others. It also means carefully planning for the use of animals to diminish impact. It also means training instructors for the set up of animal preparations, so animals are used appropriately and without waste.
Refinement
Refinement means changing the protocols for animal procedures, or changes that minimizes the pain and the distress of an animal. Examples: Husbandry, environmental changes, housing changes.
Animal Welfare
Animal welfare is defined as the physical and mental state of an animal. Replacement of animals in science-based learning when animals are not necessary, reduction of the number of animals being used in science-based learning, and refinement of the animal’s physical, mental and environmental conditions all improve animal welfare.
The “3 R’s” is a tool to consider the necessity of the use of animals in science in order to improve animal welfare.
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