Animal Research Ethics and Regulations in Canada

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Questions and Answers

What principle of the 3Rs focuses on reducing the number of animals used in research?

Refinement

Replacement

Reduction (correct)

Rehabilitation

Which of the following methods can be used to replace the use of animals in research?

Computer modeling

In vitro testing

Human volunteer studies

Both A and B (correct)

Which refinement technique is intended to minimize animal suffering during research procedures?

Improved surgical techniques

Providing social enrichment

Using less invasive methods

All of the above (correct)

Animal welfare standards in research mainly aim to ensure which of the following?

Safe handling and care Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the Replacement principle in the 3Rs?

To use non-animal methods whenever possible Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common statistic about animal usage in research?

Mice are the most commonly used research animal Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to conduct preliminary research using animals before human trials?

To ensure safety and effectiveness of treatments Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of agricultural research is often assessed to improve cow welfare?

Diet and nutritional efficiency Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not one of the 3Rs principles in animal research?

Rehabilitate used animals before research Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Animal Care Committees (ACCs) in research facilities?

Review and approve proposed research involving animals Signup and view all the answers

Which animal accounts for the majority of research animals used in Canada?

Fish Signup and view all the answers

What must researchers do before starting any animal research?

Apply to an Animal Care Committee and describe their plans Signup and view all the answers

How does Post-Approval Monitoring contribute to animal research?

By ensuring research is conducted as originally described Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of research animals used in Canada are dogs, cats, rabbits, and non-human primates combined?

Less than 1% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the oversight of animal research is correct?

Animal care and welfare are central to the review process by the ACCs. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is considered a replacement strategy in animal research?

Utilizing computer models instead of live animals Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the principle of reduction in animal research?

It aims to minimize the number of animals used without compromising statistical significance. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the principle of replacement in animal research?

Avoiding the use of animals altogether by substituting non-animal methods. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following techniques is considered a refinement method in animal research?

Providing more comfortable housing for research animals. Signup and view all the answers

What do the 'Three Rs' in animal research prioritize?

Replacement, reduction, refinement. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a relative replacement strategy?

Substituting mice for dogs in research studies. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these practices significantly contributes to quality animal care in research?

Implementing less invasive techniques and better post-procedural care. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the principle of refinement enhance animal welfare?

By improving the living conditions and care practices for animals used in research. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is NOT part of a replacement strategy in animal research?

Employing animals in invasive research when alternatives are available. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC)

Oversees and certifies exemplary care of laboratory animals in Canada.
Develops guidelines and policies.
Conducts mandatory reviews and assessments of animal research facilities and programs.
Requires adherence to "3Rs" (Reduce, Refine, Replace).
Accreditation is required for academic institutions using animals.

Animal Research Practices

Ethical and regulated, with strict guidelines for humane treatment.
Researchers must apply to an Animal Care Committee (ACC) and justify their research plans.
ACCs review proposals and require changes for improved animal care and welfare.
Veterinarians and trained animal technicians care for and oversee animal use.
Facilities are regularly inspected for upkeep.
ACCs and vets can stop experiments or intervene if needed.
Post-approval monitoring ensures research is conducted as described.

Animal Research Data

Mice and fish comprise the majority of research animals used in Canada.
Dogs, cats, rabbits, and non-human primates account for less than 0.7 percent of total animals used.
Many animals in clinical trials and teaching programs are not used for invasive research.

The 3Rs

Reduce: Minimize the number of animals used while ensuring statistically significant results.
Refine: Modify procedures to minimize pain and distress, such as optimized housing, less invasive techniques and improved anesthesia.
Replace: Use alternatives to animals whenever possible, such as computer simulations, tissue cultures, or lower sentience animals.

Examples of Animal Research

Cancer Research: Investigate the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer using animal models.
Agricultural Research: Study dairy production to improve cow health and welfare.
Wildlife Research: Track endangered wolves and caribou populations.
All research must be ethically justified and conducted according to ethical guidelines.

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Description

This quiz explores the ethical frameworks and regulations governing animal research in Canada, particularly focusing on the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC). It covers the '3Rs', the role of Animal Care Committees, and the responsibilities of researchers and veterinarians in ensuring humane treatment of laboratory animals.