Animal-Free Teaching Tools for Science Education

Animal dissection has no place in the modern classroom. As educators around the world aim to be more trauma-informed, humane, and effective, they’re exploring new ways to teach anatomy and physiology—without harming animals. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite animal-free teaching tools for dissection. We’ve got humane options to replace a variety of animals, including frogs, pigs, cats, sea animals, and rats.

These modern tools eliminate the need to harm anyone, aligning with ethical standards and reducing student discomfort. Virtual and synthetic models can be used multiple times, enhancing learning and allowing for mistakes. Many of them are also more affordable over time since they don’t involve the recurring costs of acquiring and disposing of animal cadavers. Furthermore, interactive and immersive technologies often engage students more deeply, fostering a better understanding of complex anatomical structures and systems. And because they don’t use chemicals that can harm students or tear animals away from their homes in nature, which can damage ecosystems, these superior resources are a win for students, animals, and the environment.

Adopting humane, innovative alternatives to animal dissection allows educators to provide students with high-quality, compassionate lessons that also benefit animals and the planet. Embracing these tools fosters a more ethical approach to science education and prepares students for the future with cutting-edge technology and humane practices. Check out and bookmark our list of suggested resources!