gms | German Medical Science

Over 126 million vertebrates and invertebrates are estimated to be used annually in biomedical research, toxicological tests and in education and training worldwide. Furthermore, 2 to 3% of these animals are used for teaching and training in medical courses as veterinary [1]. However, 33 scientific papers no less suggest that for biomedical students who learned using alternative methods, 39.4% have achieved higher or equivalent results compared to those that have undergone traditional learning [2].

However, the teaching replacement of live animals when compared to the replacement of animals in scientific research appears more developed, and may be considered as applicable in almost current tertiary teaching protocols [3].

Some studies suggest Replacement of harmful use of animals in medical colleges is hampered by lack of information and discussion on alternatives, official data, as well as concern about financial investment and effectiveness of “alternative” methods [4].

Using video to demonstrate examples of Veterinary Colleges that are already using humane methods in teaching, with the same pedagogical rigor and with the same pedagogical results to other coordinators and teachers becomes an important tool in the dissemination of this concept. With this objective, in March 2015, World Animal Protection undertook a project to document use of the main alternative methods in 4 Veterinary schools in Latin America, University Mayor de Chile, Universidad CES Colombia, Universidade Anhembi- Morumbi – Brazil, and Universidad del Valle del Mexico (Figures 1–3 [Fig. 1] [Fig. 2] [Fig. 3]).

A DVD (“The Best Alternative methods to the harmful use of animals in Veterinary education in Latin America”) is currently being developed which will be used to demonstrate humane methods that are already being widely used by schools in the Latin America region. This will also encourage increased engagement by vet schools and educators with effective and ethical “alternatives” through testimonies and interviews with renowned lecturers, deans and students.