How many vertebrate animals are estimated to be used each year in the United States in laboratory research?
It is estimated that more than 25 million vertebrate animals are used annually in research, testing, and education in the United States. Unfortunately, no accurate and comprehensive figures are available on how many animals are used—or for what purposes—in the United States or worldwide. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) does compile annual statistics on the number of dogs, cats, primates, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs (as well as some wild animals and, more recently, farm animals) used in research in the United States. For USDA statistics on animal use, see Animal Care Reports at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ac/publications.html.
