“It has enabled the development of many lifesaving treatments
for both humans and animals…”
“It is cruel and inhumane to experiment on animals…and alternative
methods available to researchers can replace animal testing…”
~ ProCon.org
As a farmer’s daughter, I’ve grown up around animals of all
sizes, and in turn, have learned to love them all, big or small. But the farm life has also let me see into
the sometimes harsh reality that they cannot all be pets. Since it is easy for me personally to justify
both sides, the topic of animal research is an interesting one.
We use animals for various purposes throughout our daily lives
– food, clothing, and companionship – and research. Research is necessary to improve the lives of
humans and animals alike. But does that
mean it’s wrong or right to make research one of the things for which we use
our furry friends? I’ve come to find that
there are mixed feelings. On one hand,
one’s initial reaction is probably “No! That’s cruel!” On the other hand, various regulations have
been put in place in regards to animal research and it has been the lead into
many medical breakthroughs. Regardless of
which side you defend, both have compelling arguments.
Did you know… according to the Humane Society of the United States, an estimated 25 million vertebrate animals are used each year for research,
testing, and education? True story… These
animals include cows, dogs, cats, pigs, birds, mice, rabbits, and
primates. Many believe that alternatives to animal testing are good enough. Alternatives such as in vitro testing
(i.e. studying cells in a petri dish), microdosing on humans, and computer models
spare the little creatures from becoming subjects. Those who believe this side of the argument
also agree that humans and animals are not similar enough for such things. Based on anatomic, metabolic, and cellular
difference maybe this is so. I mean, in
reality, we are not teeny tiny rats.
On the flip side though, there are justifications. ProCon.org reveals that in 2011, a poll of
nearly 1,000 biomedical scientists revealed that more than 90% “agreed that the
use of animals in research is essential.”
Animals are used in research where there is need to discover something within
the living body as a whole, which is obviously very complex. It is not always possible to successfully
complete a study so there a few reasons for using animals. We conduct this research to develop knowledge
and understanding and apply it to benefit both humans and animals. Animals are also models used to study various
diseases. Our fluffy friends and
ourselves share the possibility of many illnesses and diseases. For example, both humans and animals are susceptible
to cancer, obesity, heart disease, and infectious disease in similar ways. According to AnimalSmart.org, research in
animals has led to successful vaccines to tackle smallpox, measles, diphtheria,
and tetanus. It also looks like a positive
gateway into Xenotransplantation. Xenotransplantation is the ability to successfully
transplant pig organs into human bodies.
Pretty cool! Not to mention lifesaving. For some more details about these and other medical
breakthroughs, check this out.
The topic of animal research is such a sensitive and controversial
one, even a quick Google search will flood you with information, but I hope with
even the small quantity of information I’ve provided you can at least begin to
understand why the other side believes what they do. There are so many pros and cons, so check out
some that I haven’t touched on, here or here. I know my research shined a whole new light
on both sides of the controversy for myself. So
now, I ask, how will this info influence your feelings on the subject?
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