The Integration of Community-Dwelling Non-Human Companion Animals in Research Programs

Traditional purpose-bred laboratory animals used in clinical research and testing often do not represent human conditions, with efficacy results often not replicated in human clinical trials. Quality of life among laboratory animals is generally low given exposure to painful procedures, pathologies, and unnatural living conditions. This form of research also contributes to several detrimental environmental effects including pollution, climate change, and altered biodiversity. A One Health solution to this issue involves replacing purpose-bred laboratory animals with companion animals in research given greater similarities to human genetic diversity, healthcare systems, and living environments. The integration of companion animals in this way can also mitigate the effects of research using purpose-bred laboratory animals on animals and the environment. Most published literature on the topic involves veterinary clinical trials evaluating the potential of companion animals as research models for future human applications. We propose a study to explore the perspectives of veterinarians and researchers within this field to better understand some of the strengths and challenges associated with utilizing companion animals in clinical research programs.