Today is World Day for Lab Animals
The NSPCA observes the day as its Animal Ethics Unit closely assesses the industry
TO acknowledge the sensitive, complex and controversial issue of conducting research on animals, the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) is today (24 April) observing World Day for Lab Animals.
‘In an ideal world, research should be done without using animals. Unfortunately we have not reached that stage yet,’ said Erika Bornman, manager of the NSPCA’s Animal Ethics Unit.
‘The unit represents animal welfare on 45 animal ethics committees around the country.
‘We work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of all animals, including invertebrates, which are used for scientific purposes.
‘We have, and will continue to, put a stop to the unnecessary exploitation of animals.’
She said broad-based practical initiatives are needed to address animal welfare concerns within this field and the Animal Ethics Unit is dedicated to ensuring that optimal welfare is reached and animals do not suffer.
Animals are used for many different purposes, including research, teaching, testing and education.
Each area of use raises specific ethical, welfare, and scientific concerns, and the NSPCA adopts a constructive and practical approach.
It assesses every issue individually, critically questioning the necessity and justification for animal use.
The NSPCA follows the principle of the four Rs in all sectors of animal use – replacement, reduction, refinement, and responsibility.
‘This encourages the replacement of animals where possible, the reduction in the number of animals used for scientific purposes, the refinement of techniques to reduce pain and stress to the animals, and we advocate for anyone involved to take responsibility in every aspect of animal use.’
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