Article Commentary: The Laboratory Animal Dilemma: A Solution in our Backyards

Abstract

Despite external pressure, psychologists have not found an acceptable alternative to laboratory animals. While a strong defense of current practices may be the best policy for some, we question the assumption that the laboratory is the only or even the best setting for much behavioral research. Millions of domestic animals kept as pets are available for onsite experiments. We report that this subject pool is accessible, cost-effective, and produces reliable behavioral data. Using pets may even increase the scientific awareness of the public, improving the atmosphere for all animal research.