Every April we commemorate two very important dates: Rat Day and World Laboratory Animal Day. Both occasions invite us to reflect on the role animals have played in science, but also on the need to recognize them as sentient beings.

Rats and mice have lived alongside humanity for centuries, not only in our homes or in nature, but also in laboratories, where they have been essential to the developing of medicine and treatments.

Yet, beyond their scientific role, have you ever truly stopped to get to know them?

What few people realize is that around 95 % of all animals used in experiments are these small rodents, and their lives are barely protected by animal‑welfare laws. They remain invisible to most of us, even though they can feel fear, pain and even empathy for their companions, and have emotions remarkably similar to our own.

Intelligent, social and full of surprises

Far from the stereotypes that often surround them, rats are incredibly intelligent and sociable animals. They learn quickly, can solve complex mazes and even show empathy towards one another, recognizing a companion’s emotions and acting to help if they are in trouble.

Mice, meanwhile, have extremely sharp hearing and smell. Naturally curious, they love exploring their surroundings, and each one has a distinct personality ranging from adventurous to very reserved.

We Animals Collaboration

In early January we got exclusive access to animal‑testing facilities in Mexico, in collaboration with We Animals, we documented the hidden lives of rats and mice used for research, that served as a reminder that they are still there, today. This registry will serve for all advocates as the first ever photo-stock library of animals bred in animal-testing facilities in Latin America, taken with authorization.

We deeply appreciate the work done by Jo Anne Mc Arthur of We Animals, that showed the reality of these animals with her lens.

Every photograph in this campaign is authentic, current, and a call to rethink how science is being developed.

They, too, deserve respect and compassion

With these important dates coming up and images reaching our souls, this month of April Te Protejo launched #MásQueUnNúmero (more than a number) campaign, with the goal of making rats and mice visible, beyond the lab and raise awareness of their intelligence, emotions and social nature.

With over 30.000 downloads of adorable Rats background and Planner, one of our contents going viral, and a Subway station campaign with a total reach of over 4 million people. This campaign has proven to reach the hearts of millions and put it a bit closer to the hearts of mice and rats all over the world.

With this campaign we invite you, to look at rats and mice with more compassionate and respectful eyes. As they are living beings with their own emotions, fears and interests, who experience life in a unique way. 

Be part of the change and support this campaign, with your individual or monthly donation.

Take action, for those who’ve been left behind, for those who’ve been forgotten, for those who belong to the last line of the funding landscape.