Are there any laws that prevent research animals from unnecessary pain during the research study?
The use of research animals is strictly controlled, especially when there is the possibility of pain as a result of the study. The Animal Welfare Act was passed first in 1966 and has been amended a number of times since then. Animal comfort is addressed from birth through shipping, housing and feeding, the duration of the research study, and the animals death. Clauses in the Act also address exercise for dogs and psychological well-being for primates. Each research institution must establish an animal care and use committee that includes a member of the general public, such as a local veterinarian, church minister, or employee of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty for Animals. Membership on this committee must also include a veterinarian with specific experience in laboratory animal care. This committee reviews, approves (or disapproves), monitors and inspects every research study to help ensure that animals are not subject to unnecessary pain and distress. Review committees are
