Can animals be used for educational purposes under the AWA?

Under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), animals can indeed be used for educational purposes, but their welfare must be considered. This means that any institution or entity utilizing animals for teaching or demonstration must adhere to specific standards that ensure the humane treatment of the animals involved.

Facilities are required to provide adequate housing, nutrition, veterinary care, and psychological well-being to the animals, which aligns with the AWA's overarching goal of promoting humane treatment and preventing unnecessary suffering. Therefore, while educational use of animals is permitted, it must not come at the expense of their welfare.

The other options do not accurately reflect how the AWA regulates the use of animals for educational purposes. Prohibiting all animal use altogether is not consistent with the AWA's provisions, nor does it allow for a blanket acceptance of using only wild animals or providing no restrictions on the use of animals without considering their welfare. Hence, acknowledging the need to prioritize animal welfare while permitting their educational use is essential.