At Aptuit, we are dually committed to the highest standards of preclinical research as well as animal welfare.
We are fully accredited by the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC), and all studies are conducted in full compliance with applicable regulations.
Our policy of animal care is based on common principles known as the “3Rs” of animal research:
- Reduction (of the number of animals used),
- Refinement (implementation of the most humane procedures) and
- Replacement (of animals with non-animal alternatives, wherever possible).
We actually exceed regulations in the care of our laboratory animals as demonstrated by recognition for our efforts to provide extensive environmental and related enhancements.
We strive to avoid procedures that cause pain or distress. We regularly employ sedation, analgesia, and/or anesthesia as appropriate. Where possible, we implement group-housing to allow social interaction between our animals. We also provide numerous options to assure companionship, comfort, and exercise.
We have consistently received positive feedback from visitors to our animal facilities:
"Refinements such as pair-housing...for telemetry studies and large floor housing...demonstrate Aptuit’s willingness to seek out good practice that will benefit the animals and the science. The swimming pool...was also a welcome innovation.
-The National Center for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs), 2006