How can we be sure lost or stolen pets are not used in research?
Over 80% of the animals used in today’s research are “purpose bred” (i.e. bred specifically for research purposes). Those not specifically created for research come from licensed Class B animal dealers that are regulated and inspected by the USDA, or from pounds where animals would have otherwise been euthanized. As part of the regulatory system, the USDA mandates that animals procured from pounds must be held on the pound’s premises for five days and on the dealer’s premises for an additional five to ten days. With a combined holding period of 10 to 15 days, owners have ample time to locate lost pets and shelters to find new homes for unwanted animals. Pet owners have a responsibility to make sure their animals can be easily identified and returned if lost – through collars with tags, tattoos or microchips.
