Practical Aspects When Humanely Killing Different Species of Animals in Research

Most research animals being euthanized for research are rodents and fish, but also larger species (e.g., dogs and nonhuman primates) including agricultural animals. In the European Union, Directive 2010/63/EU is the legal framework, giving guidance on the selection of methods by species. This chapter offers responses to practical questions on the humane killing of animals in research including legal, ethical, competence, and safety aspects, as well as particularities by species. Euthanasia of animals shall be carried out as soon as possible, causing minimum pain and distress by applying humane endpoints. The procedure shall be performed in a dedicated room by trained personnel and the method shall be aligned with the purpose of the research. Safety of the research staff and animals must be ensured through all phases including discarding of the carcasses.