Xenotransplantation is a comparatively recent concept, namely, the retrieval of medically necessary organs for human use, and the corresponding transplantation procedure, originating from different species (animal donors). Nevertheless the sharing of limbs and other body parts between humans and animals, or between animals themselves, has been part of the literature, arts, folklore, and even religion of many nations and ethnic groups, for thousands of years. Given such an ancient history, there should be few moral criticisms and ethical issues concerning the intervention in medical practice. However controversies and occasional adverse publicity have marred the acceptance of the new approaches. Genetically modified animals and their utilization as solid organ donors will be addressed, emphasizing the potential benefits as opposed to environmental, social, and medical risks.