Since 2019, Animal Rights has partnered with Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht to rehome laboratory animals. Through this collaboration, more than 1,000 mice and rats have been given a second chance at life instead of euthanasia.
Building on this success, Animal Rights has expanded its efforts to work with other universities, facilities and organizations. These partnerships have enabled the rehoming of hundreds more animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, and monkeys.
Animal Rights has developed a national approach to rehoming laboratory animals across all species. While this framework is legal, participation remains voluntary and at the discretion of individual laboratories.
In this program, Animal Rights serves as both organizer and facilitator. We provide laboratories, universities, and other partners with a coordinated and confidential rehoming process tailored to each species. Our mission is to offer animals an ethical alternative to euthanasia and the opportunity to live fulfilling lives after research.
Rehoming with Individual Care
Rehoming is considered for animals that:
- Have received a veterinary health certificate
- Are in suitable physical and psychological condition
- Pose no risk to public health, other animals, or the environment
Preparation by partner laboratories plays a key role in helping animals successfully adapt to their new environments. Ensuring animal welfare throughout the placement process remains a central priority.
Animals eligible for rehoming include:
- Animals from research protocols classified as “mild” or “moderate”
- Control animals
- Parent animals
- “surplus”, bred but not used in research
A Collaborative Approach
Rehoming can be initiated either by Animal Rights or by the laboratory. Once an initial agreement is in place, Animal Rights supports the laboratory in identifying and approving suitable hosting options, such as:
- Animal shelters
- Sanctuaries or animal parks
- Aquariums
- Individual adopters
Each partnership is tailored to meet the specific needs of the laboratory.
Formal agreements are established for every placement:
- One contract between the laboratory and Animal Rights
- One contract between Animal Rights and the hosting facility
These agreements ensure confidentiality and define responsibilities. Ownership of the animals is transferred to carefully vetted hosting facilities selected for their reliability and long-term sustainability.
Animal Rights oversees the entire process—from initial contact to the animals’ arrival in their new homes—ensuring clear communication, adherence to agreements, and a smooth transition.
Follow-Up and Monitoring
After rehoming, Animal Rights conducts post-adoption monitoring to ensure the well-being of the animals. Regular updates are shared with partner facilities, and stories of successfully rehomed animals are communicated to supporters and the public.
Contact
- Laboratories interested in rehoming animals:
[email protected] - Shelters or facilities interested in hosting animals:
[email protected] - General inquiries:
[email protected]
