Advice to authorities on alternatives to animal experiments (in acc. with Art. 46 TierSchVersV)
In Germany, the conducting of animal experiments is subject to approval. The BfR advises the competent approval authorities on the existence of alternative methods to the animal experiments submitted for approval.
Legal background
The amendment of the German Animal Welfare Act (TierSchG) on 12 July 2013 created new responsibilities for the BfR.
In accordance with Art. 46 of the regulations on the welfare of animals used for experiments or for other scientific purposes (Tierschutz-Versuchstierverordnung - TierSchVersV, 1 August 2013), the BfR advises the competent authorities on matters relating to alternatives to animal experiments.
Inquiries to the BfR
Only approval authorities may send inquiries to the BfR. Please send your inquiry in writing either by standard mail or as an attachment to an eMail to the following address:
Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung
Stichwort: "Beratung nach §46 TierSchVersV"
Max-Dohrn-Str. 8-10
10589 Berlin
eMail: beratung-paragraph46-tierschversv@bfr.bund.de
Handling of your inquiry
Once your inquiry has been received, you will be sent confirmation of receipt by eMail. It generally takes 3 to 4 weeks to process your inquiry. The counselling service deals exclusively with alternatives to animal experiments. It does not include either a review of the ethical justifiability of the animal experiment or a definitive assessment as to whether or not the animal experiment is absolutely necessary.
