UK's alarming rise in animal testing: nearly three million tests last year

In the UK, nearly 2.7 million tests were conducted on various animals in the past year, according to Home Office figures. The majority of these tests involved mice, with significant numbers of fish and rats also used. Notably, tests on specially protected species such as dogs, cats, horses, and monkeys raised concerns due to the pain and distress inflicted on these animals. Approximately 18% of the tests caused moderate to severe suffering, highlighting the ethical implications of animal testing. While there has been a decrease in tests on dogs, cats, and monkeys, the use of horses has surged by 39%. This trend has prompted calls from advocacy groups for a shift towards alternative research methods that do not involve animal suffering. The Labour party has also pledged to phase out animal testing, reflecting a growing public sentiment against such practices. Despite the ongoing reliance on animal research for medical advancements, there is a push for modern technologies that could replace traditional methods, aiming to safeguard both animal welfare and human health.