MD Biosciences became the first organization in Israel to successfully rehome minipigs, marking a significant achievement in animal welfare practices. This initiative not only provides an alternative for animals after research but has also influenced national rehoming recommendations adopted by the National Council.
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Maintaining high standards of animal welfare in preclinical research is crucial for both ethical integrity and scientific reliability. Proper pig handling, training, and care help minimize stress and discomfort, which can otherwise introduce variability and compromise experimental data. By integrating ethical practices and comprehensive training, researchers can generate more consistent, high-quality data, ultimately strengthening the scientific validity and translatability of their findings. MD Biosciences is advancing responsible animal care by adopting innovative approaches such as rehoming programs, specialized training, and collaborative research, setting new standards in biomedical research.
Minipig Rehoming Program
The Rehoming Process
1. Decision-Making and Paperwork
For decision-making and documentation, the feasibility of a rehoming program is evaluated, and resources are allocated accordingly. Approval from the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is obtained, followed by the identification and verification of suitable new homes, a process managed by the donors. Additionally, approval from the regional veterinarian is required.
2. Pre-Rehoming Preparations
Before rehoming, veterinary checkups and any necessary sterilization procedures are completed. Arrangements are made to ensure safe, stress-free transportation, prioritizing the animals' well-being throughout the process.
3. Ensuring a Smooth Transition
To facilitate a smooth transition, animals are provided with familiar food and enrichment tools to help them adjust to their new environment. Necessary medication protocols are followed, and regular visits are conducted to monitor their acclimation and overall well-being.
Enhancing Animal Welfare Through Training
Beyond rehoming, enhancing the daily lives of research animals is equally important. Our specialized training and acclimatization programs help animals adjust to research environments, reducing stress and encouraging cooperation. These initiatives not only ensure ethical treatment but also lead to more reliable scientific outcomes.
Watch our webinar on animal training to learn more.
Supporting Ethical Research
MD Biosciences actively supports academic research dedicated to advancing animal welfare. By funding studies focused on pain management, humane treatment, and ethical research protocols, we are working towards a future that prioritizes both scientific progress and animal welfare.
Learn more about MD Bioscience's commitment to animal welfare here.
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