For many years, laboratory dogs have served as important animal models for biomedical research that has advanced human health. Conducted at the request of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), this report assesses whether laboratory dogs are or will continue to be necessary for biomedical research related to the VA's mission. The report concludes that using laboratory dogs in research at the VA is scientifically necessary for only a few areas of current biomedical research. The report recommends that the VA adopt an expanded set of criteria for determining when it is scientifically necessary to use laboratory dogs in VA biomedical research; that the VA promote the development and use of alternatives to laboratory dogs; and highlights opportunities for the VA to enhance the welfare of laboratory dogs that are being used in biomedical research areas for which they have been deemed necessary.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Summary
1 Introduction
2 Legal, Social, and Ethical Considerations
3 Determining the Necessity of Laboratory Dogs in Biomedical Research Funded by or Conducted at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
4 Alternatives to the Use of Laboratory Dogs
5 Care and Welfare of Laboratory Dogs Used in Biomedical Research Funded by or Conducted at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Appendix A: Methods
Appendix B: U.S. Department of Agriculture Statistics on the Use of Dogs and Other Animals in Research
Appendix C: Biographical Sketches of Committee Members