Number and Species of Animals Used In Research Unit 2-4.1

Animals Used In Research 90% of animals used in research are rats and mice *short life span *ease of breeding *similarity to human biology *Scientist can now breed mice and rats with genetic alterations that mimic human diseases

Other Animals In Research: Fish, Sheep, Cows, Horses, Pigs, Armadillos, Goats, etc. Crayfish are used to study muscle function Armadillos are used to study leprosy Pigs are used to study Influenza and to develop new surgical techniques Woodchucks are used to study Hepatitis B Sheep are used to study diseases and injuries of the bones, joints and muscles.

Animals In Research The squid, octopus and sea snail are important models for neurobiological studies Fewer than 1% of animals used in medical research are cats and dogs, which are used to study the nervous and circulatory systems. Fewer than .5% are non-human primates, used to study the brain and develop human vaccines

Animals In Research Most animals used in medical research are bred specifically for research Some studies require animals that have a known genetic history and specific traits, and breeding animals allow scientists to control those traits.

Animals In Research Due to restrictive legislation in some states, unwanted animals in city pounds may not be released for research In a few cases, non-endangered species of wild animals are imported into the U.S. for use in research.

Animals In Research Endangered species such as chimpanzees are protected by international agreements; no chimpanzees have been imported for research since the 1970’s Valid and useful scientific findings are obtainable only when research animals are healthy and protected form undue stress

Animals In Research Federal regulations prohibit both animal abuse and use of sick, injured or distressed animals as research subjects Humans also often are used as research subjects Research animals are selected carefully to ensure that only the number and species essential to each research project is used

Number of Animals in Research: Comparing the 2010 figures of animals used with those of 1973: Dogs: There have been a 67% decline Cats: The number has dropped 68% Guinea pigs: Their use is down 48% Hamsters: Dropped 68% Rabbits: Declined 53%

Number of Animals Used in Research: Rats and Mice: 95.65% Rabbits, Guinea Pigs and Hamsters: 2.18% Dogs: .25% Cats: 0.08% Primates (Monkeys): 0.28%