Obligations on Animal Users
People who use animals for scientific purposes have personal responsibility for all matters relating to the welfare of the animals they use. They have an obligation to treat the animals with respect and to consider their welfare as an essential factor when planning or conducting projects. They should observe the “Three Rs Concept” (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) by:
- Promoting the development and use of techniques which replace animal use in scientific and teaching activities;
- Ensuring that the use of animals is justified, taking into consideration the scientific or educational benefits;
- Minimising the number of animals used in projects;
- Ensuring that the welfare of the animals is always considered;
- Avoiding pain and distress for each animal used in scientific and teaching activities.
Reference:
“ The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique” by W.M.S. Russell & R.L. Burch (1959), Universities Federation For Animal Welfare
