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Info on Alternatives

Across the board, science education literature has concluded that non-animal methods, like computer software, have proved to be equivalent or superior to the use of live or dead animals in providing students with an understanding of anatomy and complex biological processes (4,5). This research indicates that non-animal learning methods have been responsible for providing students with "increased learning efficiency and increased examination results," and that students' confidence and satisfaction increased, as did their preparedness for laboratories and their information-retrieval and communication abilities. Non-animal methods benefit educators by increasing teaching efficiency and lowering costs, while affording enhanced potential for the customization and repeatability of learning exercises. Read more about the many benefits of virtual dissection and the features of some popular software programs here. Most importantly, these methods convey the intrinsic value of all animal life and the message that we can and should learn about animals without harming them.

In fact, in 2008, the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) amended its official position statement on animal dissection to approve and encourage the use of non-animal alternatives.

There are many humane alternatives to dissection that are high-tech, effective, affordable, and reusable. Programs range from in-depth virtual computer dissection modules to 3-dimensional working models. Check out our featured programs and resources below.

Featured Programs

Digital Frog 2.5
A full, physician recommended, interactive frog dissection, Digital Frog 2.5 includes all major body systems, an in-depth anatomy section with more than 70 detailed screens, and an ecology section that examines the diversity of frogs. Click here for a video demonstration of Digital Frog 2.5 with Board-certified pathologist Dr. Nancy Harrison. Visit this page for an exclusive 30% discount on Digital Frog products.

DryLabPlus Fetal Pig
DryLabPlus Fetal Pig is a physician recommended dissection that thoroughly investigates the complex internal and external anatomy of the fetal pig. It incorporates live interactive dissections, full-motion video, text and narration, quizzes, sound, music, and full-color photographs. Click here for a video demonstration of DryLabPlus Fetal Pig with Board-certified pathologist Dr. Nancy Harrison.

V-Frog™
V-Frog™ is the world's first virtual reality-based frog dissection software designed for biology education. Using a simple mouse and basic personal computer, a student can pick up a scalpel, cut and open the skin of the frog, and explore anatomy, physiology, and evolution, just like he or she would with a physical frog. Purchasers can use "PETA" as the code when ordering software through Tactus Technologies for a 10% discount. Click here for a video demonstration of V-Frog.

Emantras Rat Dissection
Emantras' Rat Dissection virtual dissection app is available for the iPad and has been designed for middle and high school students. The app features vivid 3-D images of the rat's internal organs, step-by-step instructions with voice-over, accurate simulation of the dissection procedures, and content validated by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy. Visit this page to purchase the app. Click here for a video demonstration of the Rat Dissection app. (Emantras' companion app, the Frog Dissection app, is available for the iPad, Windows, Mac, and Linux.)

Loan Programs
A number of organizations loan alternatives, such as CD-ROMs and virtual dissections, to students and schools. The following organizations have extensive lending libraries and will gladly help you find a suitable alternative to dissection and provide you with additional information and suggestions: