What is the main goal of the Animal Welfare Act for animals in research?

The primary goal of the Animal Welfare Act regarding animals in research is to ensure humane care and handling. This legislation was enacted to provide standards that protect animals used in research, teaching, and testing environments. By establishing guidelines for housing, feeding, and veterinary care, the Act aims to minimize suffering and ensure that research protocols incorporate humane practices.

The focus is on promoting responsible and ethical treatment of animals rather than advocating for or against animal testing. While the law does not aim to eliminate experimentation, it seeks to balance the use of animals in research with the necessity of humane treatment. This creates an environment where research can be conducted while valuing the welfare of the animals involved.