We fully support the internationally accepted principles: replacement of animal studies with non-animal alternatives, reduction in the numbers of animals involved in studies, and the refinement of methods to enhance animal welfare. We involve animals only if there is no valid non-animal option.
We do not fund studies that require the loss of life of cats or dogs. We only conduct dog and cat studies that are the veterinary equivalent of nutritional or medical studies acceptable on people, including: urine, feces, blood and immune cell analysis, allergy tests, and skin and muscle biopsies.
Effective November 1, 2006, we conduct studies in just three kinds of locations: pet owners’ homes, our Pet Health & Nutrition Center, and locations where dogs and cats are already living (e.g., assistance dog organizations, kennels, etc.). We test our foods with healthy pet cats or dogs in their homes or with pets who already have specific diseases or conditions.
All of the dogs and cats in our feeding programs who are not already private pets remain in our program, are adopted into private homes or are placed in our retirement center.
We ensure the humane treatment of all species and provide for their well being, socialization and husbandry in a manner compatible with the company’s philosophy.
Our studies are monitored by our own staff and independent experts with the goal being to create enriched environments for the cats and dogs. If there is the potential for pain or distress, we do whatever we can to prevent or eliminate it.
We do not fund any activities outside our company that may be inconsistent with our Policy. We do not use, in any studies, cats or dogs who are already induced with disease or surgically altered through other research; nor does the company conduct such studies under the auspices of any industry association or group.
