Culture of Care

Animal Welfare

Embedding the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) into everyday practice. 

How It Connects to a Greater Culture of Care

  • High welfare standards enable stronger science by reducing variability and distress. 
  • A clear welfare framework supports staff morale and ethical alignment, strengthening human well-being. 
  • Demonstrating welfare commitments builds external trust and supports transparency goals. 


Animal welfare is the cornerstone of responsible research involving animals. It encompasses the physical and psychological well-being of animals under our care, ensuring they experience minimal stress, pain, and discomfort throughout their lives. A strong culture of care prioritizes humane practices, ethical decision-making, and continuous improvement in animal housing, handling, and experimental procedures.

Recognizing the Cumulative Experience of Animals

Acquisition and Transport


  • Partner with reputable vendors who prioritize welfare.
  • Minimize transport time and stress through proper crate design and low-stress handling. Explore our Refined Mouse Handling Hub.
  • Provide acclimation periods before research begins.


Housing and Social Environment



  • Use species-appropriate housing that offers space, complexity, and choice.
  • Default to social housing whenever possible, with careful monitoring for compatibility.
  • Incorporate enrichment programs tailored to species and individual needs.
  • Foster positive human-animal interactions beyond procedural contexts.
  • Explore our species-specific refinement pages.


Clinical Care


  • Implement proactive health monitoring and timely intervention.
  • Ensure continuity of care and consistent treatment protocols.
  • Train staff to recognize early signs of distress or illness.


Research Procedures


  • Apply the 3Rs—Replacement, Reduction, Refinement—across all protocols.
  • Use acclimation and habituation techniques to reduce stress.
  • Incorporate refinements such as voluntary dosing, post-procedure treats, and micro-sampling.
  • Establish humane endpoints and intervention strategies.


End-of-Life or Transition


  • Perform euthanasia using AVMA-approved methods with secondary checks.
  • Explore adoption or retirement programs for suitable animals.
  • Provide resources and guidance for adopters to ensure continued welfare.


Beyond Compliance: Embedding Welfare in Culture


  • Event Recognition and Reporting: Encourage staff to report welfare concerns promptly and without fear of reprisal.
  • Assessment Tools: Evaluate welfare through physical, behavioral, and environmental indicators, as well as staff training and procedural practices.
  • Collaborative Teams: Engage veterinarians, IACUC/Animal Welfare bodies, operations trainers, and HR to maintain a unified approach.