Every day, mice and rats die in our nation's laboratories—without even the most basic protections of federal law.
Like dogs and cats, these animals can feel pain, and studies show that they are clever and great mothers and that they would risk their own lives to save their friends. But even though mice and rats make up 95 percent of all animals used in experimentation, they are specifically excluded from the Animal Welfare Act, the only federal law offering any sort of protection for animals in laboratories.
Watch PETA's new "Who Cares?" video to learn more about these wonderful animals and learn how you can help them using the form below.
Mice and rats are intelligent, social beings who deserve protection just as much as dogs, rabbits, and hamsters do. For these small animals, being included in the AWA means simply receiving the same care and treatment in the areas of housing, handling, sanitation, nutrition, water, veterinary care, and protection from extreme weather and temperatures that other species do. This basic protection could mean significantly less suffering for mice and rats.
Please click here to send a polite e-mail to your member of Congress urging him or her to push for the amendment of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) to include mice and rats.
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