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CCAC Introduces its Revised Animal Use Data Reporting System for 2030
The Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) is pleased to announce the revised Animal Use Data reporting system, which will take effect in January 2030. This important update is a significant step forward in advancing the ethical care and use of animals in Canadian science and responds to the growing demand from Canadians for greater openness and accountability.
This milestone represents years of collaboration and hundreds of hours of work by two dedicated working groups, who carefully reviewed current data collection and reporting processes, incorporated feedback from a broad range of stakeholders, and identified solutions to implementation challenges. The result is a balanced, uniquely Canadian approach that captures valuable information most institutions already collect but do not currently report to the CCAC. Together, these improvements will create a clearer national picture of animal welfare outcomes and scientific activities.
The revised system is more accurate and transparent, while also being less burdensome than comparable international models. For institutions, it will streamline reporting processes, improve data accuracy, highlight trends and gaps, and strengthen decision-making. For the CCAC, it will provide deeper insights to inform policies, guidelines, assessments, and oversight. For the public, it demonstrates accountability and reinforces confidence in our shared commitment to ethical animal care in Canadian science.
Until 2030, institutions will continue to report their animal use data in the current format, using the existing categories of invasiveness. Beginning in January 2030, the revised system will be adopted alongside the CCAC’s categories of welfare impact, with the first updated data published in the CCAC Animal Data Report 2031. To support the transition, the CCAC has prepared an overview document, detailed reporting instructions, and a sample animal use data form, and will host ongoing information and discussion sessions over the coming years, beginning at the virtual CCAC National Workshop 2026 on June 4.
The CCAC recognizes that this change will require effort, from updating forms and processes to making software adjustments and dedicating staff resources. We are deeply grateful for the commitment and collaboration of all institutions in bringing this initiative to life. Together, we are building a stronger and more ethical foundation for animal care in Canadian science.