Animals in Research

An estimated 100 million animals are used in research and testing globally each year. In the United States, rats, mice, and birds — which account for roughly 95% of all laboratory animals — are explicitly excluded from the federal Animal Welfare Act. LOHV works to close these gaps and advance alternatives that make animal testing unnecessary.

What We Are Working On

• Closing the AWA Loophole: Rats, mice, birds, fish, and cold-blooded animals are excluded from the Animal Welfare Act by regulatory definition — not by the statute itself. LOHV supports legislation to extend AWA protections to all vertebrate animals used in research.
• Cosmetics Testing Bans: More than 40 countries have banned animal testing for cosmetics. A growing number of U.S. states have passed similar bans. LOHV supports these laws at every level of government.
• Mandatory Alternatives Requirements: Before conducting animal experiments, researchers should be required to demonstrate that validated non-animal alternatives do not exist. LOHV supports legislation establishing this requirement and funding the development of new alternatives.
• Research Transparency: LOHV supports public reporting of the species and numbers of animals used in research, all procedures performed, and all animal deaths — creating accountability and enabling the public to hold institutions responsible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are mice and rats not covered by the Animal Welfare Act?

The USDA — which enforces the AWA — promulgated regulations in 1971 that explicitly excluded rats and mice of the genus Rattus and Mus bred for use in research. This is a regulatory choice, not a statutory requirement, and it can be changed through legislation or regulatory action. LOHV supports changing it.

What are alternatives to animal testing?

Non-animal alternatives include in vitro cell and tissue testing, computer modeling and simulation, organ-on-a-chip technology, and human volunteer microdosing studies. Many of these alternatives are faster, cheaper, and more predictive of human outcomes than traditional animal tests.

Is animal research regulated at the state level?

Yes. While the federal AWA sets a floor, states can and do regulate research animal welfare independently. State laws can cover species excluded from the AWA, set higher standards for housing and care, and require institutional review processes. LOHV works with state legislators to advance these protections.