The 3Rs (Three Rs) of replacement, reduction and refinement have guided research involving animals through the use of humane principles around the world. The 3Rs have been adopted in various ways through policy, guidelines and legislation. In Australia, people involved in animal research are trained to understand and implement the…
Grooming the dogs in your care is important. There are health and welfare benefits over and above making their coat look great and well-cared-for. Benefits of grooming Some of the benefits are obvious such as keeping the coat tidy, removing knots, and making the coat look well-cared-for. Other benefits which…
(adopted 04/10/2021)
Emergency events like droughts, fires, floods and other natural disasters are an unfortunate reality that are becoming more frequent as a result of climate change. These events have devastating impacts and affect thousands of farm animals. Owners of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry and other farm animals have a duty…
The use of animals in research poses many welfare risks including those associated with housing, nutrition, social groupings, handling practices, interventions and fate of the animals. These risks may result in pain, fear, physical injury, disease, anxiety and distress resulting in suffering and/or reduced ability to function normally. Addressing these…
Thousands of animals are used in research and teaching in Australia each year. It is essential that the sentience of these animals is recognised and that their welfare is considered a high priority. The RSPCA believes that the use of animals in research must be justified, does not cause pain…
A diverse range of animal species are used in research but the vast majority are rats, mice and fish; guinea pigs, rabbits, cattle, sheep, horses, dogs, cats and other animals are also used. National statistics of the number and species of animals used in research in Australia are not collected….
The way in which crocodiles are farmed for skins and meat results in a number of welfare concerns including confinement, which prevents crocodiles from being able to fully exercise freely and satisfy their behavioural, social and physiological needs. Crocodiles are sentient and intelligent animals who need adequate space to exercise…
Animals with exaggerated physical features, like brachycephalic or flat-faced dogs, have loving personalities and form strong bonds with their owners. Unfortunately, breeding for particular body shape features results in health and welfare problems. Many brachycephalic dog breeds have major difficulty giving birth. British bulldogs, French bulldogs and Pugs are deliberately…
Animals with exaggerated physical features, like brachycephalic or flat-faced dogs and cats, have loving personalities and form strong bonds with their owners. However, there are health and welfare problems associated with their conformation due to selective breeding. Brachycephalic breeds with flattened faces commonly have eye sockets that are very shallow….