[Towards a Brazilian regimentation for use of animals in teaching and in scientific research]

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the current situation of Brazilian regimentation for use of animals in teaching and in scientific research.

Methods: It was identified and discussed the legislation about the use of animals in teaching and in scientific research in Brazil and in Rio de Janeiro State.

Results: There is not an updated general and systematizing rule with focus on animal vivisection and experimentation, neither for didactic nor scientific purposes. The only specific law dates from 1979 and it was not regimented. More recent laws equate the practice of scientific experiments to the abuse acts and bad handling of animals, when exists alternative technology. In the city of Rio de Janeiro, vivisection practice and experimentation with animals in public veterinary institutions is forbidden since 2001. Currently, there is a substitutive in discussion at the Chamber of Deputies as a result of the evaluation of more recent law projects, representing an inestimable advance without however corresponding to a body of principles and directives that can adequately guide the question.

Conclusion: In our country there is not regimentation for using animals in teaching and in scientific research. It becomes imperative to make lucid and realistic arrangements which can assure the continuity of the use of animals. The scientific community is ready to contribute to that purpose.