Second annual open house highlights the division's commitment to advancing human health through ethical animal care and transparency in research
SOURCE: The Institute
October 10, 2025
The Animal Resources Division (ARD) at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute) recently welcomed family, friends and colleagues for its second annual Open House. The event offered an inside look at how the ARD supports world-class research that advances human health, while showcasing its unwavering commitment to ethical practices and transparency in the care and use of animals for scientific discovery. Visitors toured the facilities, learned about animal care standards and met the dedicated professionals who ensure that all research animals receive the highest level of care and respect.
The timing of this year's event — coinciding with World Animal Day, a global celebration of animal welfare and advocacy — added special significance for Lucie Côté, DVM, Director of the ARD.
"Marking this occasion with an open house in our workplace was a powerful reminder of why transparency matters," said Dr. Côté, who was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the European Animal Research Association (EARA), becoming the first North American to serve in this role. "In my new role with EARA, I'm committed to advancing international dialogue around ethics, accountability and the responsible use of animals in research."
The open house also shone a light on the expertise, compassion and professionalism of the ARD team. "Our work is highly specialized and not always easy to describe," noted Dr. Côté. "Being able to show it in person makes all the difference."
Guests had the opportunity to meet veterinarians, animal health technicians and animal care workers — all of whom are trained professionals dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing of every animal under their care. Their daily work combines scientific precision with deep compassion, upholding the highest ethical standards and contributing directly to discoveries that improve and save human lives. Guests also spoke with researchers, who explained how animal models are essential to advancing their work in the fields of childhood diseases, respiratory illnesses, parasitology, and cancer.
With 80 guests in attendance, the youngest being 2 years old, the event reinforced the value of open dialogue in helping the public appreciate the essential role research animals play in advancing scientific knowledge and developing new treatments for diseases that affect people – and animals- worldwide.
The ARD continues to lead by example in animal welfare, research integrity and institutional transparency. Its work — guided by the principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement (the "3Rs") — reflects The Institute's mission to improve human health through innovative and responsible research.
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Animal Resources Division web page