UBC Announces 2024 Animal Research Stats: 182,407 Animals Involved

UPDATE: The University of British Columbia (UBC) has just released its 2024 animal research statistics, revealing that a total of 182,407 animals were involved in 435 research and teaching protocols this year. This marks the 15th consecutive year UBC has published such data, underscoring its commitment to transparency in animal research.

In a significant move for ethical oversight, UBC’s report is submitted to the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), the national body responsible for ensuring the humane use of animals in scientific research. UBC is among the few Canadian universities dedicated to sharing this information annually, reinforcing its pledge to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare.

Jennifer Ogeer, UBC’s university veterinarian, emphasized the importance of animal research in advancing medical knowledge. “Animal research is essential to developing better treatments for both humans and animals,” Ogeer stated. “At UBC, animals are involved in research only when absolutely necessary, and we prioritize their welfare with the highest standards of care.”

The latest statistics show a 1% decrease in the total number of animals used compared to 2023, where 184,000 animals were reported. Notably, more than 98% of the animals involved were rodents, fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The breakdown includes:

– 84,761 rodents (46% of total), up from 82,001 in 2023.
– 71,747 fish (39% of total), down from 76,286 last year.
– 23,050 reptiles and amphibians (13% of total), compared to 24,404 in 2023.

Of particular note, 60% of the animals (approximately 109,573) were involved in procedures categorized as causing little to no discomfort. These included activities such as behavior observations, blood sampling, and tracking wild animals, aligning with CCAC’s Categories of Invasiveness B and C.

In addition to sharing these statistics, UBC offers a virtual tour of its animal care facilities, allowing the public to see firsthand the standards upheld in animal research.

As UBC continues to refine animal research methods, the university remains committed to the principle of reducing, refining, and replacing animal use in experiments. Procedures undergo rigorous reviews by the university’s animal care committee, which includes research experts, licensed veterinarians, and community representatives.

For more details on UBC’s 2024 animal research statistics and insights into the animal care protocols, visit https://animalresearch.ubc.ca.

As this story develops, the impact of UBC’s research on both animal welfare and scientific progress remains critical, resonating within the global community concerned about ethical research practices. Stay tuned for updates on ongoing research efforts and their implications for conservation and medical advancements.