An on-line information resource on the use of animals in science

Abstract

Tuition in animal welfare and related ethical issues is included in an increasing number of secondary and tertiary level courses and there is a growing demand among students for information on the use of animals in science. UFAW receives many requests from students undertaking projects on this subject and seeking guidance on sources of information. This new website, which provides clear and balanced summaries of the issues, is a valuable addition to the literature to which students can be directed and has the advantage that it can accessed in seconds and for free (apart from communication line costs). The topics covered include: why study animals? minimizing the harm done to animals in science; benefits of animal-based science; balancing harm and benefit; ethics and use of animals; and control of animal use in science. The site presents well-written and succinct introductions to these topics: ideal for secondary-level - and for introduction to tertiary-level - debate on the subject. In addition, the site also provides a list of further reading and relevant videos and the web addresses of other relevant sites.