Organ transplantation, considered a dubious proposition just a few decades ago, has become commonplace because of research on mice, rats, rabbits and dogs. Animal research has contributed immeasurably to our understanding of tumors, and led to the development of most cancer treatments and therapies. Virtually all cardiovascular advances, including the heart-lung machine, the cardiac pacemaker, and the coronary bypass, could not have been possible without the use of animals. Other discoveries made possible through animal research include an understanding of DNA, artificial hips, joints and limbs, monoclonal antibodies and surgical dressing. Animal research will be essential to medical progress in the future.
Researchers care about the welfare of laboratory animals.
Like everyone else, scientists don't want to see animals suffer or die. Many people are under the false impression that laboratory animals are not protected by laws and regulations. In fact, many safeguards are in place to guarantee the welfare of animals used in research. A federal law, entitled the Animal Welfare Act, stipulates standards for care and treatment of all laboratory animals except rats, mice and birds. Both the Animal Welfare Act and the PHS animal welfare policy mandate review of all research by an animal-care committee established in each institution to ensure that laboratory animals are being used responsibly and cared for humanely.