Research Farm Welfare: Animals in Agricultural Research

Animals used in agricultural research face welfare challenges analogous to those in biomedical research, requiring robust welfare frameworks and 3Rs application.

Key Facts

Agricultural research uses millions of farm animals annually for production and welfare research
Welfare requirements for agricultural research vary between countries and institutions
Some agricultural experiments involve welfare-compromising procedures analogous to biomedical research
Research that improves welfare standards ultimately benefits many more animals than it involves
Ethics review for agricultural animal research varies significantly in rigor between institutions

Welfare Considerations

Agricultural research animals are used in experiments that advance both production and welfare science, creating a dual accountability. Animals used in welfare research deserve the same ethical scrutiny as those in biomedical research. The 3Rs apply equally: replacement with in vitro or computer models where possible, reduction in numbers used, and refinement of procedures to minimize suffering. Robust ethics frameworks for agricultural animal research improve both welfare and research quality.

What You Can Do

Support institutions with strong animal welfare frameworks for agricultural research
Advocate for 3Rs application to be required in all publicly funded agricultural animal research
Donate to organizations developing alternatives to animal use in agricultural research
Engage with agricultural research ethics frameworks and consultations