Alternative Methods to Animal Testing

Animals are often used in scientific research to better understand various diseases, medications and side effects of common behavior. In general they are used to help scientists better understand how the body works. Many people are troubled by the idea of animal testing. Animal testing is heavily regulated, and steps are taken to ensure there is as little suffering as possible. However, alternative methods to animal testing are often sought.

Seeking Alternatives

• Testing without the use of animal subjects is not the only true alternative, as is often assumed. Alternative methods can also mean a reduction in the number of animals used. A further alternative is working to eliminate stress and pain felt by animal subjects. This potential suffering is at the heart of the search for alternatives. While it is important for scientists to be able to conduct research in order to cure or treat human diseases and conditions, it is also important to eliminate unnecessary pain to animal test subject. Mice, worms and rats are the most common animal subjects. Animals such as dogs, monkeys and rabbits are also used from time to time, but much less often. However, the general public tends to get most upset at the thought of testing on this second group of animals.

Alternatives

• Animals are used in laboratories in a number of ways. The primary purposes of animal testing include product safety, biomedical research and education. These tests are most often used in service of human health, but they can also be helpful in the development of veterinary practices. Another way in which animal testing is useful is the study of animal behavior. This can aid researchers in better understanding human behavior and psychology. The guiding principle for lessening animal suffering is known as the "three Rs": Reduce, Replace and Refine. This concept first appeared in the 1959 publication, "The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique," by W.M.S. Russell and R.L. Burch. Reduction means scientists obtaining the necessary information while using fewer animals. Replacement refers to researchers implementing non-animal testing as much as possible where it can achieve the same aim. Practices that limit pain and suffering fall under the refinement category. This also includes limiting stress and providing as humane a living situation as possible. Some popular alternatives to animal testing include computer simulation, small dosage testing on animals (called microdosing) and cell cultures. These techniques work well in many cases, though certain experiments require a living body to gain proper results. In these instances it is impossible to come to the necessary conclusions without utilizing animal testing.