Research at the RVC is underpinned by a deep concern for the health and welfare of animals. RVC researchers safeguard the health and welfare all animals, whether domesticated or wild.   

Animal welfare relates to how an animal experiences its life and encompasses both its physical state and its mental wellbeing. At the RVC, a concern for animal welfare underpins our approach to research both in terms of what we investigate, and in terms of how we investigate. We draw on both fundamental understanding of biology and lessons learned in human medicine to continuously improve animal welfare. We work in interdisciplinary teams, to answer key questions about how animals perceive and process information about their world, how genetic and environmental factors contributing to animal suffering can be treated, managed or avoided, and how positive experiences can be promoted so that animals may experience a good life.    

RVC researchers work with farmers, policy makers, food processors and retailers, and welfare charities to help raise the standards of animal welfare based on the evidence our science generates.  

All RVC animal research methods implement the 3Rs, aiming to protect animal welfare, minimise numbers of animals used, and avoid using animals at all where possible. The RVC is also committed to open communication with all members of society about our work and its impact on animal health and welfare. 

See also: RVC Animal Welfare Science and Ethics (AWSE)