Better Animal Welfare Leads to Better Science

Animal testing is a part of research that has not been outsourced to AI or technology and does not present with an alternative method. Animal testing has contributed significantly to advances in medicine, agriculture & aquaculture, and environmental sciences. At this point in time, animal testing is still a necessary part of research, but strides are being made to move more testing to benchtop and other viable options. However, until new options are developed, it will remain an important part of ensuring safety and efficacy for various treatment options and come with an undeniable ethical obligation: ensuring the welfare of animals involved in research.

Maintaining their welfare is rooted in both ethics and science. Studies have shown that stress or suffering can alter biological responses, compromising the validity of research data. Simply put, better animal welfare leads to better science. Moreover, public trust in scientific research is closely tied to how humanely animals are treated. Researchers must continually demonstrate that animal testing is conducted responsibly, transparently, and only when necessary.

But it is all well and good to discuss the importance of animal welfare, but a company’s word can only go so far. Checks and balances need to be in place to follow up the talk. You need to walk the talk! Globally there are a variety of organizations that monitor animal welfare.  Onda is proud to be certified by the Canadian Council for Animal Care (CACC), an independent, non-profit organization globally recognized as a leader in ethical oversight of animal use in science. Its purpose is to ensure that animals used in research, teaching, and testing are treated humanely, ethically, and responsibly. To maintain our certification, Onda must go through regular audits ensuring that we are adhering to the policies and guidelines set in place CCAC and that we are keeping an ethical research facility. 

Animal welfare in scientific testing is not just a regulatory checkbox — it is a profound ethical responsibility. Upholding the principles of humane treatment improves the integrity of research and affirms society’s trust in science. Every step taken to protect animal welfare is a step toward a more ethical, compassionate, and scientifically rigorous future. The goal must always be to push toward a future where fewer animals are needed, and those that are used are treated with the highest respect and care.