Guidelines for the use of animals in research:
(1) The study should yield results that have sufficient benefits to animal or human health to justify the adverse effects on the study animals.
(2) A careful review of the literature should be conducted to make sure that the experiments do not unnecessarily duplicate previous studies.
(3) A careful review should be conducted to make sure that a nonanimal alternative is not available.
(4) The species of animals used in the experiment should be carefully selected to be appropriate for the purpose of the experiment.
(5) The number of animals used in the experiment should be carefully selected to utilize the smallest possible number of animals.
(6) Discomfort to the animals should be limited to that which is unavoidable for conducting the experiment.
(7) Appropriate analgesic agents, anesthetics, and tranquilizing drugs will be used to minimize pain and discomfort to the animals.
(8) If euthanasia is necessary, a method will be used that minimizes pain and discomfort to the animals.
(9) The individuals performing the experiments should be properly trained in the experimental procedures and in the care of animals.
(10) The animals should be adequately housed and cared for.
If all of these steps are taken, then most reasonable persons would consider the use of animals in the research study acceptable. Any guideline that is not met should be corrected prior to conducting the study.
