At MD Biosciences, we are committed to ethical responsibility in animal welfare, ensuring the highest standards of care in preclinical research. As the first organization in Israel to successfully implement minipig rehoming, we are setting a new benchmark for responsible practices. Beyond our own initiatives, we support academic research aimed at improving animal welfare across the scientific community.

Abstract from Felasa 2025:

D. Castel‬‏, D. Lendengolts, O. Hifi, Y. Shilo-Benjamini, S. Meilin‬‏
MD biosciences, Rehovot, Israel, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel

Rehoming Göttingen Minipigs (GMPs) post-experimentation presents unique challenges due to sterilization regulations, behavioral needs, and public misconceptions. Successfully finding lifelong homes for these intelligent animals requires addressing welfare concerns, transportation logistics, and health compliance. Ethical considerations and public awareness are critical to ensure their reintegration into appropriate environments, especially in regions lacking local guidelines for such efforts.

MD Biosciences embarked on a journey to rehome three female GMPs with a successful outcome. The process began with identifying a farm open to accepting research animals, despite no prior experience with GMPs. Together, a comprehensive rehoming program was developed to address their dietary, enrichment, and acclimation needs.

Municipal approval was obtained for transportation between Rehovot and Ramat-Gan municipalities. The pigs were sterilized on the donor’s site by veterinarians and allowed time to recover. Authorized transport was arranged, including familiar food and toys to minimize stress. Collaboration between donor and receiving veterinarians ensured a gradual dietary transition and consistent health monitoring. Emotional bonding was fostered by naming the animals, Reichel, Fibi and Monica, symbolizing their successful integration into their new environment.

The process raised important ethical questions: Who oversees the animals’ health in their new homes? How long should donors remain involved? What protocols should be in place for negative human-animal interactions? And how should suitable homes be selected?

This journey underscores the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and ethical reflection, setting a precedent for future rehoming efforts and emphasizing the welfare of research animals post-study.

Steps in Establishing an Ethical Rehoming Program:

1. Decision-Making and Paperwork

The first step in establishing an ethical pig rehoming program is to assess its feasibility and allocate the necessary resources. This involves engaging with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to ensure the program meets ethical and regulatory standards. Identifying and vetting a suitable new home is essential and is typically the responsibility of the donor organization. Final approval must be secured from the regional veterinarian to proceed.

2. Pre-Rehoming Preparations

Once all administrative approvals are in place, preparations begin to ready the animals for transfer. This stage includes a comprehensive veterinary checkup to confirm the animals are healthy for rehoming, as well as sterilization procedures where appropriate. Safe and humane transportation arrangements are also made to ensure minimal stress during the move.

3. Collaboration and Acclimation

The final phase involves close coordination with the new caregivers to support a smooth transition. Providing familiar food and enrichment items from the animals’ previous environment helps ease acclimation. If needed, a medication protocol is shared with the new home. Ongoing visits are encouraged to monitor animal welfare and ensure proper handling and care continue post-rehoming.

Establishing a strong, transparent relationship between the professional staff at both facilities is key to ensuring long-term, effective care for the pigs.

Learn more about our efforts in animal welfare here.