Frequently asked questions
Read our frequently asked questions.
Animal research is only ever carried out where there is no other viable alternative. The use of animals within research creates an understanding of the biology around heath and disease in humans and animals.
The use of animals is fundamental to developments and discoveries of human and animal medicine, antibiotics, vaccinations and surgical techniques.
The majority of the animals we use are mice, however we also use rats and rabbits. In previous years we have used voles and guinea pigs.
For further information visit our animals page.
Data on the procedures carried out on animals is collected by the home office. The total number of animals used in procedures at the University of Surrey can be found on our animals page.
The welfare of the animals is protected through the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (as amended 2012). At the University of Surrey we work hard to ensure the highest possible standards of animal care are provided by a dedicated and qualified technical team who are on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
All staff are trained and regularly assessed by the Named Training and Competency Officer (NTCO). The University has regular communications and visits from the Home office to ensure that the welfare of the animals is being met at all times.
The Named Veterinary Surgeon (NVS) is responsible for, monitors and provides advice on the health, welfare and treatment of animals and should help the establishment license holder to fulfil his/her responsibilities.
For further information visit our ethics page.
No, it has been illegal to test finished cosmetics on animals in the UK since 1998, and animal testing of ingredients that may be used in cosmetics has been illegal across Europe since 2009. From March 2013 it has been illegal to import and sell cosmetics that have been tested on animals outside the EU.
In March 2015 the government also banned the testing of household cleaners on animals.
Our animals are supplied by a reputable certificated breeders who are members of the Laboratory Animals Breeders’ Association (LABA). This is controlled and monitored by the Home Office.
Once used in a scientific procedure, laboratory animals are humanely euthanised. The number of animals used has to be recorded and reported to the Home Office.
Tissue is often collected to use for further study once the animal is euthanised.
Where possible some laboratory animals can be rehomed.
For further information visit our ethics page.
No. Whenever possible, carcasses of animals culled in the Biomedical Research Facility are used for the practical training of the students on the Veterinary Medicine course.
No dogs have ever been used at the University of Surrey which fall under Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (as amended 2012).
No Non-GA animals were killed in the process of creating new lines of GA animals.