The current status of laboratory animal ethics in South Africa.

In South Africa, the humane care and use of nonhuman animals for scientific and teaching purposes is governed by the widely accepted ethical framework of the Three Rs — i.e. the Replacement of animals by non-animal models where possible, the Reduction of the number of animals used to the minimum required to yield valid scientific results, and the Refinement of scientific procedures and animal care standards in order to limit the potential for pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm, thus improving animal wellbeing.1 This article outlines the successes and current challenges in implementing and raising awareness of the Three Rs in South Africa.