Q: Why does Dow use laboratory animals for research?
A: Animal testing is not something Dow undertakes arbitrarily, but neither is it something Dow can discontinue, as this testing plays a critical role in enhancing Dow’s understanding about the safety of Dow’s products, thereby protecting public health and the environment. Indeed, in almost all cases the laws of the countries in which Dow operates require such testing to be conducted. As far Dow is able, Dow keeps its use of animal testing to an absolute minimum.
Dow is continually looking for reliable alternatives to animal testing that meet Dow’s product stewardship requirements. Dow supports the 3R’s — reduce the use of animals, replace them with non-animal test methods, or refine test procedures to eliminate animals’ pain and distress. Dow is working to integrate alternative methods into Dow’s product safety evaluations where their use will not compromise human health or safety and where they will gain acceptance from regulatory agencies.
Since 1968, Dow has voluntarily been audited by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC). Following each audit, Dow has been accredited by AAALAC.
For more information about Dow’s judicious use of laboratory animals in testing, visit Animal Research.