Episode 29: The Science of Confinement: Exploring the Psychological Impacts on Research Animals

Join AFSA's Dr. Dana Kolsky and renowned neuroscientist Dr. Garet Lahvis as they delve into the ethical issues of animal research, with a focus on the mental wellbeing of animals in laboratories. Dr. Lahvis shares his journey from a key researcher to an advocate against animal confinement in laboratories. Explore the limitations of animal models in studying human conditions, understand the role of ethics committees, and consider alternatives to traditional research methods. This insightful discussion challenges the current scientific practices and highlights the need for a more compassionate and innovative approach. Read the episode transcript here (https://animalfreescienceadvocacy.org...) . About our guest: Dr. Garrett Lahvis is a former professor of behavioral neuroscience at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland. He holds degrees in ecology and evolutionary biology, natural resources, toxicology, and immunology. Dr. Lahvis has published over 40 scientific papers and received two literary awards plus a Pushcart Prize nomination. He is renowned for his research on social emotions such as empathy in mice. His journey into questioning the validity and ethics of animal research models due to their inadequate living conditions led him to cease his work in animal research, steering his expertise towards authorship with a forthcoming book for the University of Chicago Press. Dr. Lahvis outlines his journey departing from traditional research in favor of advocating for the dignity and welfare of animals and highlighting the conflict scientists face between their research outcomes and the conditions laboratory animals endure. His perspectives challenge the norms within scientific communities and urge a reevaluation of fundamental research approaches, calling for the acknowledgement of the intricate experiences of animals. Visit www.animalfreesci.org.au for more information on animal testing, non-animal research models and more.  Follow Dr Garet Lahvis: –            garetlahvis.com (http://garetlahvis.com) –            X: x.com/GLahvis (https://x.com/GLahvis) , –            Bluesky: garetlahvis.bsky.social (https://bsky.app/profile/garetlahvis....) Wherever you get your podcasts, be sure to tune in to AFSA for more thought-provoking content!