Using Animals in Scientific Applications

The ASPCA recognizes that the field of biotechnology offers the potential of great benefit to the advancement of animal welfare. The promise of new methods of disease diagnosis and treatment, nonsurgical methods of contraception to manage animal populations, along with advances in research methods that support the reduction, refinement and replacement of animals used in research are among the potential benefits. At the same time, the ASPCA recognizes that research in this area, and the commercialization of the discoveries, will need to proceed with caution and attention to the welfare of any animals involved. [See position statement on Pet Cloning]