WINTER 2007

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E A M E R I C A N A N T I -V I V I S E C T I O N SOCIETY

Spring Ahead: Creating a Better World for Rabbits

VOLUME CXV, NUMBER 1 ISSN 0274-7774 Contents FEATURES

Managing Editor 2 A Damaged Rabbit is Still a Rabbit: 15 Is the Domestic Rabbit the Right Crystal Schaeffer And other reasons why animals Companion for You? Copy Editor shouldn’t be patented By Caroline Gilbert, Founder/Director, Julie Cooper-Fratrik Rabbit Sanctuary, Inc. By Nina Mak, MS, AAVS Research Analyst Rabbits can be wonderful members of the family. AAVS launched the second phase of its Ban Are they the right companions for you? Animal Patents campaign in March. Our aim now is to stop a patent on rabbits who are subjected to STAFF painful eye experiments in order to develop eye 16 What Rabbits Can Teach Us about Tracie Letterman, Esq., drop solutions. Character-Building Executive Director By Laura Ducceschi, MA, Jeanne Borden, Director of Animalearn Administration Assistant 6 Blinded for Beauty: Humane education can be used to help instill Rabbits Used in Product Testing Chris Derer, Membership Coordinator reverence and respect for animal life. Laura Ducceschi, Education Director By Vicki Katrinak, AAVS Policy Analyst Heather Gaghan, Director of Rabbits are the most recognized symbol associated Development & Member Services with compassionate shopping. This recognition is 17 Did you Know? Rabbit Facts Nicole Green, Assistant Director of somewhat dubious, however, since rabbits are so Rabbits are fascinating animals. Learn more Education widely used in product testing research. about them! Vicki Katrinak, Policy Analyst Nina Mak, Research Analyst 10 UnFURgivable: Rabbits 18 The Plight of the Meat Rabbit Nicole Perry, Outreach Coordinator Dying for Fashion By Paulette Lincoln-Baker, Crystal Schaeffer, Outreach Director Volunteers Director, RabbitWise® By Vicki Katrinak, AAVS Policy Analyst Julie Sinnamon, Office Manager Although not a popular meat choice in the U.S., While some may feel that the fur industry is dying, Lauren Zaprala, IT Manager & rabbits are exploited for their flesh and suffer in the trade in rabbit fur is thriving. Graphic Designer many of the same ways that other animals raised for food do. GRAPHIC DESIGN/ILLUSTRATION: Rabbit Research: © Copyright 2007 eureka, 12 www.abouteureka.com the cost of experimentation By Crystal Schaeffer, M.A. Ed. Down the Rabbit Hole: The AV Magazine (USPS 002-660) is 22 AAVS Outreach Director Living With Our Wild Neighbors published quarterly under the auspices of Rabbits are exploited in a number of ways by many the American Anti-Vivisection Society, industries, including the biomedical industry. By Kristine Rawls, AAVS Intern Sue Leary, President. Annual membership Learning more about your wild rabbit neighbors dues: $25 .00. Third-class postage paid at will help you have a peaceful coexistence. Lancaster, Pa. Office of Publication: 801 Old York Rd., #204 COLUMNS Jenkintown, PA 19046-1685 Telephone: (215) 887-0816 Fax: (215) 887-2088 20 MediaWatch 26 TRIBUTES E-mail: [email protected] AAVS staff speak out on behalf of animals through Special friends honored and remembered. Website: www.aavs.org the media, and AAVS launches its End Animal Cloning campaign. Articles published in the AV Magazine may 28 ARDF Update be reproduced with written permission and The field of alternatives development has made a with credit given to AAVS. Also, we appreciate NewsNet difference for rabbits in laboratories. receiving pertinent newspaper and magazine New24 Animal Ethics Centre Launched in UK; clippings, including their sources and dates of Medical Journal States Animal Tests Unreliable; publication. New Alternative Could Help Reduce Animal Tests; Federal Agency on Probation for its Animal When sending funds or making bequests, Care; First Female Dogs Cloned in Korea; EU please use our legal title: Implements New Chemical Testing Program.

The American Anti-Vivisection Society 801 Old York Rd., #204 Message to Our Members Jenkintown, PA 19046-1685 26 Last year was a great year for AAVS and its Organized and established in 1883. programs, especially the Tina Nelson Sanctuary Fund. The American Anti-Vivisection Society does not verify all of the claims made by the authors and the individual views expressed in the AV Magazine do not necessarily reflect the policy of the organization.

Printed on recycled paper. Who Are We?

ounded in 1883, the American Anti- Vivisection Society (AAVS) is the oldest Rabbits are one of my favorite animals— FIRST WORD non-profitF animal advocacy and educational they are soft, fuzzy, and adorably cute. A organization in the United States dedicated lot of people must feel the same way about to ending experimentation on animals in research, testing, and education. AAVS also rabbits because there are thousands of opposes and works to end other forms of bunnies purchased every year around the cruelty to animals. We work with students, grassroots groups, individuals, teachers, the Easter holiday. Unfortunately, most of these media, other national organizations, govern- ‘Easter bunnies’ end up in shelters or are ment officials, members of the scientific abandoned in parks. Before purchasing a community, and advocates in other coun- tries to legally and effectively end the use rabbit this Easter, please consider whether of animals in science through education, a rabbit is the best choice for you and your advocacy, and the development of alternative family. Although it is tempting to purchase methods to animal use. these adorable, little creatures—especially AAVS has two main divisions, each involved for children—rabbits are not ideal pets for in specific activities. Animalearn is the small children because they do not like to be education program of AAVS, which focuses on ending vivisection and dissection in the held and can bite. If your child is asking for a rabbit this Easter, perhaps you can suggest classroom. From elementary through college a chocolate bunny. If your children are like mine, they will happily accept this sweet levels, Animalearn helps countless individu- als make their classrooms more humane. treat! Animalearn operates the most aggressive If you are really interested in having a rabbit as a pet, please do not perpetuate the dissection alternatives lending library in the country, The Science Bank; it provides alterna- rabbit pet trade. Instead, there are thousands of rabbits waiting to be rescued from local tives to using animals, from basic dissection, animal shelters or rescue groups. Visit www.rabbitrescue.com for more information through psychology experiments. Animalearn about whether you are the right person to live with a rabbit and where you can rescue also participates in national teacher confer- ences and hosts workshops to help teachers these animals. learn ways of educating without harming As a consumer, there are lots of choices that you can make to prevent the cruel and other living creatures. Animalearn’s National Humane Educators Network links interested inhumane treatment of rabbits. One obvious way is to forego rabbit, or lapin, for dinner. parties with speakers across the country, Although this dish is increasing in popularity, many people are surprised to learn that bringing the message of humane education to thousands. USDA categorizes rabbits as “poultry” and, as a result of this categorization, these animals receive no protections under the Humane Slaughter Act. The Outreach division of AAVS educates the general public about animal issues through Another easy action for animal advocates to take in eliminating cruel treatment one of the top-rated literature collections in towards rabbits is refusing to buy clothing that contains rabbit fur. Many sweaters, coats, the animal advocacy movement and the infor- gloves and other clothing contain rabbit fur. Surprisingly, ethically minded consumers mative AAVS website. Our quarterly publica- tion, AV Magazine, and bi-monthly newsletter, may purchase fur trimmed items unintentionally because not all clothing with fur is Activate For Animals, provide comprehensive required to contain a label identifying whether the fur is real or faux. (Please see up-to-date information on the scientific and page 10.) ethical dimensions of animal experiments and alternatives. Both publications encourage AAVS Next, purchasing personal and household products that are not tested on animals, members and supporters to become actively involved in our campaigns. Outreach staff also such as cosmetics, shampoos, and laundry detergents, is an important step towards travel to speaking engagements and confer- eliminating unnecessary product testing on animals. Due to the docile nature of ences and place advertisements in national rabbits and their sensitive eyes, product testing is frequently conducted on these gentle publications to spread the AAVS message across the country. creatures. To help consumers purchase products that are truly cruelty-free and to encourage companies to use nonanimal alternatives, AAVS is assuming responsibility The Alternatives Research & Development for the management and development of the Coalition for Consumer Information on Foundation (ARDF), an affiliate of AAVS, awards grants to scientists and educators Cosmetics. (Request your free Compassionate Shopping Guide today!) working to develop non-animal methods of investigation. ARDF’s unique program As for rabbits used in research, AAVS is challenging the patenting of a rabbit. The provides the necessary resources for the devel- challenged patent is for a rabbit whose eyes have been purposefully damaged to mimic a opment of alternatives to the use of animals, condition in humans known as dry eye. If this patent is granted, the patent owner can and it advocates the use of alternatives through the internet and by participating license the rabbit model to drug researchers to test the effectiveness of medications for in conferences and seminars. Through these treating dry eye. AAVS is contesting the legality of this patent by arguing that animals endeavors, ARDF works to promote scientific are not patentable subject matter and the techniques claimed in this patent are not solutions for today with humane visions for the future. novel or nonobvious. If the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office continues to grant patents for animals, animal suffering will escalate. Patent owners have a financial incentive to We ask you to become a member of AAVS and help us to end the use of animals in science encourage the use of patented animals in research and testing and they discourage the through education, advocacy, and the devel- use of nonanimal methods. (See page 2 for further information on how you can help.) opment of alternative methods. It is only through the support of members and other Hopefully, this issue will inspire you to take action and help AAVS eliminate suffering individuals that we are able to continue our for rabbits in many different ways. With spring approaching, it is the perfect time of vital and successful programs. year to focus on rabbits. Whether they are white, black, brown, or multi-color, rabbits are beautiful creatures who deserve compassion and humane treatment. By Nina Mak, MS, AAVS Research Analyst

 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 A Damaged Rabbit is Still a Rabbit And other reasons why animals shouldn’t be patented

n August 2, 2005, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued Patent No. 6,924,413 to the Japanese company, O Biochemical and Pharmacological Laboratories, Inc. (BPL) for a rabbit whose eyes have been purposefully damaged to mimic a condition in humans know as ‘dry eye,’1 allowing BPL the potential to profit from intentionally harming animals. AAVS is challenging this patent.

Animal Patents aging such as hearing loss, muscle loss, According to an 5 For over 200 years, the U.S. Patent and and graying hair; announcement made by Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued ➜ Mice who have been genetically the USPTO in 1987, patents, or exclusive property rights, to engineered to be susceptible to stress and inventors of “any new and useful process, depression;6 and it “now considers machine, manufacture, or composition ➜ Horses and mice who have been nonnaturally occurring, of matter, or any new and useful implanted with thymus and liver organs 2 nonhuman, improvement thereof.” For most people, from a human fetus of approximately 24 a “patentable subject matter” would be gestational weeks.7 multicellular living something like a toaster, alarm clock, organisms, including or zipper—not an animal. It is hard to The Rabbit Patent believe that since 1988, the USPTO has, animals, to be patentable With the belief that complex, living in fact, been issuing patents not just for organisms should not be patented, subject matter.” things like light bulbs and toothbrushes, AAVS is again challenging one such but also for living, sentient animals. animal patent: Patent No. 6,924,413, According to an announcement made rabbits whose eyes are fixed open and by the USPTO in 1987, it “now considers then intentionally damaged to serve as nonnaturally occurring, nonhuman, models for corneal epithelial damage in multicellular living organisms, including humans. Rabbits are traditionally used 3 animals, to be patentable subject matter.” in eye experiments, such as the infamous Because of this, over 660 patents have now Draize eye irritancy test, because their eyes been issued for animals that have been are large, and they are generally docile ‘altered’ in some way, usually sickened, animals. The patent covers not only the injured, or harmed in the interest of process used to inflict damage on the profit, but under the guise of scientific animals, but also the damaged animals research, testing, and experimentation. themselves—and not just rabbits, but any Some examples of animal patents include: nonhuman mammal or fowl, including ➜ Cats, dogs, nonhuman primates, monkeys, dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rats, mice, rats, sheep, or pigs who have been mice, goats, cows, sheep, pigs, and irradiated to make them immunodeficient chickens who have received the damage and then transplanted with human bone are covered under the patent. marrow and spleen cells;4 According to this patent, the rabbits’ ➜ Mice who have been genetically (or other animals’) eyelids are glued engineered to model human signs of open or held open using retractors so that

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY  A Damaged Rabbit is Still a Rabbit continued

As the bunny patent “they cannot blink, and the cornea is then approximately $80-100 million in 2004 illustrates, animal treated with water-absorbing substances to $350-700 million within three to five such as powdered sugar or salt for 20-60 years, and manufacturers are interested in patents provide an minutes, until the corneal surface layer capitalizing on this growth by developing incentive to hurt (epithelium) is damaged. These rabbits new therapies.10 can then be used by drug researchers to animals for economic test the effectiveness of medications for (Un)Ethics of Animal Patents gain. treating corneal epithelial damages such By patenting an animal model of 8 as dry eye in humans. dry eye disease, Biochemical and Pharmacological Laboratories, Inc. Dry Eye Disease will be able to turn injured rabbits Dry eye, known scientifically as keratitis into a business. According to U.S. sicca or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a patent law, anyone wishing to use mild form of corneal epithelial damage the patented “product” would be caused by insufficient tear production.9 required to obtain permission from, It is becoming increasingly common and usually pay a fee to, the patent in humans due to the growing use holder. As the bunny patent illustrates, of computer displays (which reduce animal patents provide an incentive blinking), soft contact lenses (which can to hurt animals for economic gain. absorb tears), and laser surgery (which Because patents also restrict damages the nerves that stimulate tear competition, since no one other than secretion). It is estimated that over 20 the patent holder can commercialize million Americans suffer from symptoms the patented product, the ability to of dry eye, which include dryness, patent animals also protects and justifies irritation, itching, redness, sensitivity to the often substantial investment that light, and blurred vision. corporations, major universities, and There are numerous treatments government agencies pour into research for dry eye already available without and development of animal models a prescription, usually in the form of for biomedical research and testing. artificial tears or ointments that can If animals could not be patented, be applied directly to the eye. One pharmaceutical and biotech companies, prescription product is also available— for example, would have a significantly Restasis, a cyclosporine formulation that reduced interest in developing new reduces inflammation of the eye surface animal models. in some people. Thus, animal patents encourage However, many of these products research on animals, discouraging provide only temporary relief, and some research into alternatives and the use of products simply do not work for some non-animal methods. The increase in people. It is estimated that the market animal patenting seen in recent years, for dry eye treatment will grow from due largely to the proliferation of genetic

 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 ‘manufacture.’ In particular, the capacity to display emotion and complexity of reaction and to direct behaviour in a manner that is not predictable as stimulus and response, is unique to animal forms of life.”13 This is AAVS’s second challenge to an animal patent and follows our success in having Texas A&M University drop its patent claims on beagles who were severely sickened and then purposefully infected with a mold in order to test new human drugs on them.14 AAVS hopes to have similar success challenging the bunny patent. Please contact the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and tell the agency that you support AAVS’s Request for Re-Examination of Patent No. 6,924,413. Explain that you are opposed to issuing patents on animals such as rabbits, who are sentient individuals, not machines or, as the Patent Office states, Dry eye is becoming increasingly common in humans due to the growing use of computer displays (which “compositions of matter.” Mail Stop Comments- reduce blinking), soft contact lenses (which can absorb tears), and laser surgery (which damages the nerves Patents, Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box that stimulate tear secretion). It is estimated that over 20 million Americans suffer from symptoms of dry 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450. eye, which include dryness, irritation, itching, redness, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.

engineering, represents a serious threat to of “machine,” “manufacture,” or Resources efforts to reduce animal suffering caused “composition of matter,” and are thus 1. Katsuyama, I. (2005). U.S. Patent No. 6,924,413. by experimentation. “patentable subject matter.” Thereafter, Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The unethical nature of issuing patents it was established that the steps used to 2. 35 U.S.C. Sec. 101. Inventions Patentable. on animals led philosopher and ethicist damage their eyes would be “novel” and Bernard Rollin to write in his 1995 book, “nonobvious” to a person knowledgeable 3. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. (2006). of the field. Chapter 2100 Patentability, Section 2105 Patent- The Frankenstein Syndrome: “In my view, able Subject Matter - Living Subject Matter. Manual the Patent Office rushed in where angels AAVS, however, in conjunction with the of Patent Examining Procedure. feared to tread.... It was a bureaucratic PatentWatch Project of the International 4. Keating, A., & Wu, D. (2000). U.S. Patent No. decision made in a value-free context Center for Technology Assessment, is 6,018,096. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trade- (or value-ignoring context) by an agency contesting the legality of this patent. We mark Office . that has notoriously avoided engaging assert that animals are not patentable 5. Prolla, T.A., & Kujoth, G.C. (2006). U.S. Patent the ethical and social issues raised by subjects, as they are complex life forms No. 7,126,040. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. inventions like switchblades [and] assault with sentience and self-awareness, 6. Roberds, S.L., & Huff, R.M. (2006). U.S. Patent rifles.... It disavows concern with issues and cannot be patented as a mere of safety; danger to humans, animals, or No. 6,984,771. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and manufacture or inventor’s composition Trademark Office. environment; or welfare of animals.”11 of matter. A rabbit with damaged eyes is 7. Chen, B., Fraser, C., & Weissman, I. (2004). U.S. still a rabbit. Moreover, the methods used Patent No. 6,770,260. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent AAVS Challenge to damage the rabbits’ corneas fail the and Trademark Office. According to patent law, for a patent “novel” and “nonobvious” requirements 8. Katsuyama, I. (2005). See Note 1. to be awarded, the subject matter must of patent law, because prior literature 9. Meadows, M. (2005). Dealing with Dry Eye. FDA be a “new and useful process, machine, already suggests using the techniques Consumer Magazine 39(3). manufacture, or composition of matter, claimed in the patent. We are thus asking 10. ISTA Pharmaceuticals - Research and Develop- or any new and useful improvement the USPTO to reexamine and rescind the ment. Retrieved March 6, 2007, from http://www. istavision.com/research/products_ecabetsodium. thereof.” In addition, “the subject matter rabbit patent. asp. sought to be patented must be sufficiently Others share AAVS’s sentiments that 11. Rollin, B.E. (1995). The Frankenstein Syndrome: different from what has been used or animals are not patentable objects. In Ethical and Social Issues in the Genetic Engineering of described before that it may be said to be 2002, Canada agreed that animals are Animals. New York: Cambridge University Press. nonobvious to a person having ordinary not patentable subject matter when 12. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. (2005). skill in the area of technology related to the Supreme Court there ruled that General Information Concerning Patents. 12 the invention” [emphasis added]. “Several important features possessed 13. Harvard College v. Canada (Commissioner of Patents), 4 S.C.R. 45, 2002 SCC 76 (2002). Thus, in order for the USPTO to by animals distinguish them from grant the bunny patent, the agency both micro-organisms and plants and 14. Andersson, B.S., Sadeghi, T.K., Cromeens, D.M., & Tarrand, J.J. (2002). U.S. Patent No. first made the judgment that injured remove them even further from being 6,444,872. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and rabbits somehow fall under the category considered a ‘composition of matter’ or a Trademark Office.

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 

Blinded for Beauty: Rabbits Used in Product Testing By Vicki Katrinak, AAVS Policy Analyst

 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 T he image of a rabbit has become the logo of choice for the cruelty-free product industry. This is due in part to the work of animal advocates who displayed pictures of rabbits with eye injuries and shaved sides to reveal the horrors of the product testing industry to consumers. Many companies responded to consumer concerns by banning product testing or working to develop appropriate nonanimal alternatives; however, thousands of rabbits continue to suffer and die each year to put consumer products such as shampoo, lipstick, and laundry detergent on store shelves.

The Draize Tests in a time warp, and are largely based on wasteful and often poorly predictive animal experiments.”3 Different species and even The test most often associated with rabbits in laboratories is different animals within the same species can change test results the Draize Eye Irritancy Test; however, other animals including due to differences in absorption, distribution, metabolism, and dogs and nonhuman primates are also used for this procedure. excretion of chemicals. Test conditions are often unrealistic, with John H. Draize, Ph.D., a scientist at the United States Food and extremely high doses administered by abnormal routes, and “test Drug Administration (FDA), developed the Draize eye test in results have to be ‘scaled up’ to humans but the mathematical 1944 to assess eye irritation caused by various chemicals. In formulae used have not been proved accurate.”4 All of these the test, a substance is placed in one eye, with the other eye factors lead to highly unreliable safety data. serving as a control. The rabbits are restrained, preventing them from responding naturally to the irritation, and their eyes are The Draize eye test has been criticized for several reasons. The evaluated after one hour and then at 24-hour intervals for up to structure of the cornea of the eye of a rabbit differs significantly 14 days. Some continue to be evaluated up to 3 weeks later. The from that of a human. Rabbits also produce a smaller volume of tears than humans, allowing chemicals and other irritants placed level of irritation to the eyes is scored numerically by observation in rabbit eyes to linger longer and cause more irritation.5 Not of the three major tissues of the eye (cornea, conjunctiva, only does this make the Draize eye test unreliable, but it also and iris).1 Rabbits suffer from redness, bleeding, ulcers, and adds to the immense suffering caused by this test. In addition, even blindness, and are likely killed upon completion of the “the subjective nature of the gross observations made during the experiment. scoring of the test, plus normal animal-to-animal variability, make Similar to the eye test, Draize also developed a skin irritancy it virtually impossible to routinely reproduce the final Draize test that measures the level of irritation caused by test substances score, especially for midrange irritants.”6 Similarly, the reliability on the skin. Rabbits, as well as rats and mice, are often used of the Draize skin irritancy test has been questioned since for the Draize skin irritancy test in which one patch of skin is different species have very different types of skin, “so a simple shaved and a high concentration of a test substance is applied extrapolation to likely human responses is rather dubious.”7 while another shaved area is used as a control. The skin is then Clearly, animals are not sufficient models for product testing, yet observed for signs of irritation such as swelling, itching, soreness, their use remains entrenched in modern science. and inflammation.2 Cosmetic Testing and the Law Flawed Science It was not until the early twentieth century that cosmetic and Using rabbits and other animals to assess the safety of cosmetic household products were tested on animals. In 1933, a product and household products is not only unjustified cruelty, but also called Lash Lure blinded over a dozen women, and one woman flawed science. As reported byNature , toxicology tests “are stuck died after an ulcer caused by the product became infected. This

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY  Blinded for Beauty continued

incident and others like it led the United licenses the leaping bunny logo, requires States Congress to pass the Food, Drug, companies to follow the Corporate and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act of 1938.8 This While product testing Standard of Compassion for Animals, a law gave the FDA regulatory authority on animals has voluntary pledge whereby companies state over cosmetic products, and companies that they will not conduct or commission began to test products and ingredients on declined in the U.S., animal tests for any of their finished animals in an effort to ensure safety for efforts to stop the products, ingredients, or formulations consumers. While many companies still after a fixed cut-off date. Unlike other use animal testing to assess the safety of testing of cosmetic lists, the CCIC requires companies to their products, “the FD&C Act does not products on animals renew their pledges annually and obtain specifically require the use of animals in have been more verifiable assurances from their ingredient testing cosmetics for safety, nor does the suppliers that no new animal testing Act subject cosmetics to FDA premarket successful in Europe. has or will take place after the fixed cut- 9 approval.” In addition, the U.S. off date. These assurances make CCIC Consumer Product Safety Commission, “cruelty-free” or “not tested on animals,” the only reliable list of cosmetic and which ensures the safety of household but this claim often refers only to the household products that are 100 percent chemicals, does not require the testing of finished product. Most animal testing of cruelty-free. household products on animals. There products does not occur at the final stage Hope for the Future are sufficient existing safety data as well as but rather through the supply chain. So, in vitro alternatives to make animal testing a product may claim that its products Unlike so many other animal abuses, for cosmetic and household products are not tested on animals, while all its the issue of using animals in product obsolete. Unfortunately, many companies ingredients have been tested on animals. testing is one that ultimately rests with remain resistant to changing their testing Similarly, some companies state that “we” consumers. Reliance on animal testing techniques, and U.S. agencies like the do not test on animals, when in fact the methods for cosmetic and household FDA continue to endorse animal testing testing is merely contracted out to another products will continue unless concerned methods as the gold standard. company. These kinds of labels and claims citizens speak out with their purchasing While product testing on animals has are often confusing and misleading to power. By making informed humane declined in the U.S., efforts to stop the consumers. choices and encouraging others to do testing of cosmetic products on animals Concerned about the number of the same, individuals can push for an end have been more successful in Europe. In different animal testing claims that to product testing and stop the needless 2003, animal advocates in the European companies use with no accountability, suffering of millions of rabbits and other Union (EU) successfully pushed for several animal protection organizations, animals each year. passage of a ban on cosmetic testing on including the American Anti-Vivisection animals. The seventh amendment to the Society, joined forces in 1996 to create Cosmetics Directive (76/768/EEC) sets the Coalition for Consumer Information a series of deadlines for animal testing on Cosmetics (CCIC).11 CCIC, which bans and marketing bans of cosmetics containing animal tested ingredients. Most of these deadlines are tied to Please visit the CCIC website at www.leapingbunny.org. the availability of nonanimal testing methods. In 1998, the United Kingdom banned testing cosmetic products and ingredients on animals, and testing bans or partial bans are also in place in Austria, Belgium, Germany, and The Netherlands. Unfortunately, until the EU sales ban is in place, most cosmetic products sold in these countries will have been tested on animals in other countries.10

Labeling While many animal tests have been replaced by suitable alternatives, (see sidebar page 9) saving countless lives, many animals continue to suffer and die to manufacture personal care and household products. At the same time, companies have learned that making cruelty-free claims can lead to big profits. Compassionate consumers purchase products with labels claiming to be

 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 Resources Alternatives to Product Testing on Animals 1. Curren, Rodger D., & Harbell, John W. (1998). In vitro alternatives for ocular irritation. Environmental Health Perspectives, 109, 486. Below is a list of some non-animal alternatives to product testing that have been validated by the United States (U.S.) or the European Union (EU), as well 2. Langley, Gill, Ph.D., & Langley, Chris, Ph.D. (2005). Safety without suffering: Ensuring the safety as some that show promise for approval. of cosmetics without tests on animals, p.21. Retrieved September 22, 2006, from http://usa.lush.com/ terms/animaltest.html ➜ Epi-Derm™ is a skin model derived from human skin cultures that is now a 3. Abbott, Alison. (2005, November 10). More than validated alternative for testing skin corrosivity. It is being considered for approval a cosmetic change. Nature, 438, 144. as a measure of skin irritation and phototoxicity as well. While this model has been 4. Langley, Gill, Ph.D., & Langley, Chris, Ph.D. validated to replace the animal test method in the EU, U.S. regulators still require a (2005). Safety without suffering: Ensuring the safety of secondary test using animals for negative results only. cosmetics without tests on animals, p.13-14. Retrieved September 22, 2006, from http://usa.lush.com/ ➜ EPISKIN™ is a three-dimensional human skin model comprised of reconstructed terms/animaltest.html epidermis for assessing dermal corrosivity. The EU has approved this alternative 5. Langley, Gill, Ph.D., & Langley, Chris, Ph.D. (2005). Safety without suffering: Ensuring the safety to eliminate the animal test method but the U.S. still requires confirmation tests on of cosmetics without tests on animals, p.23. Retrieved animals for negative results. September 22, 2006, from http://usa.lush.com/ terms/animaltest.html ➜ Corrositex uses a synthetic membrane-based detection system to determine 6. Curren, Rodger D., & Harbell, John W. dermal corrosivity potential of chemicals and chemical mixtures. It is designed to (1998). In vitro alternatives for ocular irritation. Environmental Health Perspectives, 109, 487. mimic the effect of corrosives on living skin. This test method has been validated in 7. Langley, Gill, Ph.D., & Langley, Chris, Ph.D. the U.S. and EU. (2005). Safety without suffering: Ensuring the safety of cosmetics without tests on animals, p.21. Retrieved ➜ EpiOcular™ is a model of the cornea consisting of normal, human-derived September 22, 2006, from http://usa.lush.com/ epidermal cell culture for assessing eye irritation. terms/animaltest.html 8. Institute for Laboratory Animal Research ➜ Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR) computer models make (2004). Safety Testing. In Science, Medicine, and predictions about the process by which chemical structure is quantitatively correlated Animals. (p. 21-28). Retrieved November 27, 2006, from http://newton.nap.edu/books/0309088941/ with a biological activity or chemical reactivity. QSAR models can be used as a first html/21.html step for evaluating many chemicals for acute toxicity and skin and gut absorption. 9. United States Food and Drug Administration. (2006, April 5). Animal Testing. Retrieved ➜ Caco-2 human cells possess many of the same properties as the small intestine. November 30, 2006, from http://www.cfsan.fda. Use of these cell lines is a useful nonanimal alternative for predicting the absorption of gov/~dms/cos-205.html chemicals through the gut. 10. British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection. (n.d.). Cosmetic Testing Around the World. Retrieved ➜ Physiologically-Based Biokinetic (PBBK) computer models predict the absorption November 30, 2006, from http://www.buav.org/ campaigns/cosmetics/testing.html and distribution of chemicals within the body and how quickly they will be excreted. 11. CCIC is comprised of the American Anti- Vivisection Society, American Humane Association, ➜ In vitro cytotoxicity test methods have been approved in the U.S. and EU to Beauty Without Cruelty, USA, Doris Day Animal eliminate extraneous animal testing by estimating the starting doses for acute oral League, Humane Society of the U.S., New England toxicity tests. Anti-Vivisection Society. ➜ Deductive Estimation of Risk from Existing Knowledge (DEREK) is a knowledge- based system for the prediction of a range of toxic endpoints including skin sensitization.

➜ The Ames test uses specific strains of common bacteria to detect genetic changes caused by test substances. Positive test results signal the possibility that the compound could cause cancer. This widely used alternative method was developed in the 1970s.

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY  By Vicki Katrinak, AAVS Policy Analyst

unRabbitsfur Dying forgivable Fashion

n the early 1990s, of decades past and to those killed for meat may enter animal advocates who want to wear fur more the market, the majority of seemed ready to casually. As reported in the rabbit fur sold in the United I declare victory Wall Street Journal, rabbit fur States and abroad is from in their anti- has also become more popular rabbits specifically bred for fur campaign as fur sales due to new fashion trends. their fur. In fact, rabbit plummeted, nearly wiping For example, “Rabbit’s meat production techniques out the entire industry. more affordable price has are “usually incompatible Unfortunately, all fur has encouraged experimentation, with production standards made a comeback since then, either with color or shadings for quality fur pelts,”2 since and rabbit fur is no exception. that mimic other furs, or even rabbits are slaughtered in In fact, rabbit fur is commonly other textures.”1 Thus, the the meat industry at 10 to 12 used in accessories like number of rabbits killed to weeks of age when their coats scarves and gloves as well fuel this new fur market has are thin and not suitable for as a plethora of relatively increased significantly in the fur. Conversely, two species of inexpensive fur coats, vests, past decade. rabbit in particular have been and ponchos that have gained bred for the fur industry due popularity in recent years. A Tale of Two Rabbits to their soft and beautiful fur: In addition, fur is now Despite claims and beliefs the Rex and the Angora. being marketed to a larger to the contrary, rabbit fur Rex rabbits are known for and younger crowd who is not merely a byproduct their special coats. Unlike cannot afford to buy the full- of the rabbit meat industry. most rabbit breeds, the length mink or sable coats While some fur from rabbits Rex has guard hairs that

10 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 are shorter than the undercoat. This FTC increased this threshold to $150 Resources trait results in a soft, velvety coat that is in 1998.8 According to the FTC, “If 3 prized by the fur industry. Rex rabbits the cost to a manufacturer of fur trim 1. Baetty, Sally. (2004, January 27). Rabbit are raised usually until the age of 6 or 7 used on a garment (not including the Redux: A Once-Lowly Fur Finds New Luster. months when they are killed solely for cost of adding the trim to the product) Wall Street Journal. Retrieved November 6, 2006, their fur. The Angora rabbit has long or a manufacturer’s selling price of a from http://www.siliconinvestor.com/readmsg. hair often referred to as wool, which is fur product is $150 or less, the product aspx?msgid=19737064 9 cut with scissors or electric or manual is exempt from the statute or rules.” 2. Lebas, F., Coudert, P., de Rochambeau, H., & shears, or collected by depilation. The Therefore, a parka with fur trim could Thebault, R.G. (1997). Production of Rabbit Skins female Angora rabbits are kept alive as cost $250, but as long as the value of the and Hair for Textiles. In The Rabbit: Husbandry, long as possible, and their hair is collected trim is less than $150, it does not need to Health and Production (chap. 8). Retrieved every 90 to 100 days in wool production. be labeled as fur. November 3, 2006, from http://fao.org/docrep/ t1690E/t1690e0a.htm Because they produce less hair than Rabbit fur, because of its relatively 3. Ruben, Dawn, Dr. (n.d.). Choosing a Rex Rabbit. females, male Angora rabbits are often low cost, is often used in products that Retrieved November 6, 2006, from http://www. culled at birth. This slaughter provides are exempt from this labeling law. In petplace.com/small-mammals/choosing-a-rex- less competition for food, which speeds fact, using approximate pelt prices 4 rabbit/page1.aspx the development of the female young. after tanning and dressing, a garment 4. Lebas, F., Coudert, P., de Rochambeau, H., & could contain the fur of 30 rabbits and Life on the Fur Farm Thebault, R.G. (1997). Production of Rabbit Skins still be exempt from the Fur Products and Hair for Textiles. In The Rabbit: Husbandry, 10 Rabbits raised and killed on fur farms Labeling Act. Because labels are not Health and Production (chap. 8). Retrieved suffer immensely. Kept outside in barren required, unsuspecting consumers may November 3, 2006, from http://fao.org/docrep/ wire cages, rabbits often suffer from inadvertently purchase real fur products t1690E/t1690e0a.htm temperature extremes. For Angora or have no idea what type of fur they are 5. Lebas, F., Coudert, P., de Rochambeau, H., & rabbits, who are sheared during the purchasing. Thebault, R.G. (1997). Production of Rabbit Skins winter months when their coats are Fortunately, the United States Congress and Hair for Textiles. In The Rabbit: Husbandry, thickest, death from exposure to the is considering legislation, H.R. 891, Health and Production (chap. 8). Retrieved November 3, 2006, from http://fao.org/docrep/ elements is a common fate. “Most losses that eliminates the $150 threshold and t1690E/t1690e0a.htm of adult Angoras occur during the days requires all fur garments to be properly following hair collection as the animals labeled. Introduced by Representatives 6. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. (n.d.). Inside the Fur Industry: Animal Factories. then have problems maintaining thermal James Moran (D-VA) and Mike Ferguson balance.”5 For rabbits who are killed for Retrieved November 3, 2006, from http://www. (R-NJ), this important legislation will peta.org/mc/factsheet_display.asp?ID=56 their pelts, such as the Rex rabbit, death allow consumers to make informed 7. The Fur Products Labeling Act 15 U.S.C. § 69 often comes by cruel methods. Animals decisions about fur products and choose (2000). on U.S. fur farms are not protected by any faux fur products instead.11 federal laws requiring humane slaughter. 8. Federal Trade Commission. (1998, February 13). Commission Amends Textile-related Rules to Streamline As a result, rabbits and other animals What You Can Do farmed for their fur are killed in ways Disclosure Requirements; Automates Registration Number that preserve their fur with no regard for Please contact your federal (RN) Process. Retrieved November 10, 2006, from http://www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/02petapp9.98.htm the suffering of the animals. Gassing, Representative and urge him or her decompression chambers, and neck- to support and cosponsor H.R. 891. 9. Federal Trade Commission. (2000, December). breaking are common killing methods on Tell your Representative that this In-FUR-mation Alert: How to Comply with the Fur Products Labeling Act. Retrieved November 10, 2006, rabbit fur farms.6 legislation is necessary so American consumers can make educated decisions from http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/ alrts/furalrt.htm Laws and Legislation about fur garments. To find your U.S. Representative and his or her contact 10. The Humane Society of the United States. In 1951, the United States Congress information, log onto www.house.gov or (2006, March 9). Faux or Feline? The Truth in passed the Fur Products Labeling Act, call (800)688-9889. Fur Labeling Act Will Help You Choose. Retrieved which requires the labeling of fur November 3, 2006, from http://www.hsus.org/ garments with the country of origin and wildlife/fur_and_trapping/fur_products_labeling_ the species of the animal or animals who act.html produced the fur, whether the product is 11. The Dog and Cat Fur Prohibition Enforcement composed of used fur, waste fur, or dyed Act of 2007, H.R. 891, 110th Cong., 1st Sess. or artificially colored fur. Unfortunately, (2007). there is a loophole in this labeling law that allows the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to exempt certain products “by reason of the relatively small quantity or value of the fur or used fur contained therein.”7 For many years, the threshold for exemption from the Fur Products Labeling Act was $20; however, the

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 11 primates and pigs and ten times that of cats. Twenty-two years ago, rabbit use Rabbits in Research: reached an all-time high of over 554,600 individuals being exploited in testing the cost of experimentation and research. Over the past two decades, the use of rabbits in laboratories has gradually declined, and in 2004, the most By Crystal Schaeffer, M.A. Ed., AAVS Outreach Director recent year with available data, rabbit numbers reached 261,573. (See Tables 1 & 2) Nearly 43 percent of these animals were utilized in procedures that caused pain and/or distress. (See Table 3)

Rabbit research Due to their small size, docile nature, and the fact that they are relatively inexpensive to purchase, breed, and house, rabbits are used in a wide variety of research areas. Because rabbits are used so extensively in eye irritancy tests, much is known about their eye physiology, so they are also often used to study questions about human eye physiology and disease. For example, several scientists at the University of Southern California are using rabbits to study diseases associated with impaired vision due to the release of secretions on the eye surface. Additionally, researchers at Emory University are studying cornea edema, while at the University of Arkansas for Medical Science, Little Rock, researchers are studying visual processing in the retina. However, rabbit eye physiology is very different than that in humans. One glaring difference is the fact that rabbits do not have tear ducts, so there is no natural mechanism to wash away eye irritants as in humans. Rabbits are also used in cardiovascular research. Though not typically used in studying the health benefits of exercise, they are sometimes used to investigate the impact of exercise on cardiovascular function. In one study, rabbits were placed in a motorized wheel, forced to exercise, and later subjected to surgery to assess their cardiac function. In another study, rabbits were required to jump over obstacles in order to get to their food, which “caused a large number of injuries that would not likely Most people associate the development to optical and cancer be acceptable to most [Institutional 1 use of rabbits in laboratories studies to models of human disease. Animal Care and Use Committees].” with product testing. And Rabbits are also used extensively M indeed, rabbits are typically The Numbers in atherosclerosis research. Another used in corrostivity testing According to 2004 data released by published study stated that “Several experiments such as the Draize eye and the U.S. Department of Agriculture characteristics of the rabbit make skin irritancy tests. However, they are (USDA), the number of rabbits used in it an excellent model for the study 2 also used in biomedical research in a laboratories rivals that of guinea pigs and of…atherosclerosis.” However, variety of areas ranging from vaccine is nearly five times that of nonhuman according to scientists at the University

12 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 Table 1:  Number of Rabbits Used in Table 2:  Number of Rabbits in Laboratories of an artery in her ear is roughed, and Laboratories since 1973* Compared to Other Species (2004)* a ligature is placed around the artery to decrease blood flow by 50 percent, creating a clot. After several days, the 1973 447,570 Cats 23,640 rabbit is again anesthetized, and the clot is removed, dissected, and injected 1974 425,585 Dogs 64,932 into the carotid artery to cause an embolism. Treatments are given to try 1975 448,530 Guinea pigs 244,104 to break down the clot, and eventually 1976 527,551 Hamsters 175,721 the animal is killed so the brain tissue can be evaluated.4 The data generated 1977 439,003 Nonhuman primates 54,998 from such research investigating disease treatment is dubious because the rabbit’s Pigs 54,504 1978 475,162 metabolism, and thus drug absorption, 1979 539,594 Rabbits 261,573 works differently than in humans. Rabbits are also used in research of Sheep 19,218 1980 471,297 the reproductive system. For example, 1981 473,922 Other farm animals 31,956 scientists at Emory University are utilizing rabbits in studies investigating 1982 453,506 All other covered species 171,132 sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and possible treatments. Rabbits are also 1983 466,810 used as models for erectile dysfunction 1984 529,101 Grand total 1,101,958 to increase understanding of the disease and develop drug treatments, despite 1985 544,621 the fact that their physiology and metabolism are different from humans. 1986 521,773 Table 3: Number of Rabbits in 1987 554,385 Laboratory Facilities (2004)* Polyclonal antibodies Widely utilized in both laboratory and 1988 459,254 clinical settings to research, diagnose, 1989 471,037 Total number of rabbits 261,573 and treat disease, polyclonal antibodies (PAbs) are often produced using rabbits, 1990 399,264 and are implemented in a variety of ways. 1991 396,046 No pain and/or distress 148,125 For example, PAbs can be produced so that they can be used in a specific 1992 431,432 area of investigation, such as cancer 5,6 Pain and/or distress with drug relief 106,447 or HIV/AIDS research. Additionally, 1993 426,501 many manufacturers, including Charles 1994 393,751 River Laboratories and New England Peptide, Inc., will custom produce Pain and/or distress, no drug relief 7,001 1995 354,076 PAbs for their clients.7,8 PAbs are also used extensively in vaccine research 1996 338,574 of Arizona, the use of rabbits in such as well as treatment development to 9 1997 309,322 research is waning because, as an combat transplanted organ rejection. herbivore, “the rabbit’s normal eating (Please see sidebar on page 14.) 1998 287,523 behavior is different from humans” and, therefore, its cholesterol metabolism Husbandry 1999 280,222 is different. Additionally, rabbits in As with other animals used in research, 2000 258,754 atherosclerosis research are often living conditions for rabbits in laboratories given diets high in fat and cholesterol, are designed primarily to meet economic 2001 267,351 causing fat lesions on internal organs and husbandry concerns rather than 3 2002 243,838 instead of hardening of the arteries. social and psychological needs. For Another common area of biomedical example, rabbits are typically housed 2003 236,250 investigation that uses rabbits, despite individually in plastic or steel cages and fed a diet of pellets, and as a result, often 2004 261,573 their physiological differences from humans, is stroke research. One suffer from social isolation and lack of mental stimulation. As a consequence, *Based on information provided by the example of a procedure to simulate U.S. Department of Agriculture. the development of a condition that rabbits in laboratories will exhibit predisposes an individual to stroke stereotypic behaviors such as chewing involves several invasive procedures. and scratching on cage bars and excessive First, a rabbit is anesthetized, the inside fur licking and hair pulling. Like other

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 13 Rabbits in Research continued

animals, including humans, psychological 8. New England Peptide, Inc. Custom Polyclonal stress can stimulate physiological Resources Antibodies. Retrieved on January 3, 2007, from changes in rabbits, some of which could http://www.newenglandpeptide.com/web/html/ alter the outcome of research data. 1. American Physiological Society. (February polyantibody.html. 2006). Resource Book for the Design of Animal Exercise 9. Brown University. Polyclonal Antibodies. Protocols. (p. 75). Conclusion Transplant Rejection Treatment. Retrieved on 2. Brousseau, Margaret E., & Hoeg, Jeffery M. December 20, 2006, http://biomed.brown.edu. With their laboratory numbers (1999). The Journal of Lipid Research. Transgenic Courses/BI108_2004_Groups/Group.... exceeding a quarter million and over 40 rabbits as models for atherosclerosis research. percent experiencing pain and distress Vol. 40, 365-375. Retrieved December 15, as subjects in research, rabbits, who are 2006, from http://www.jlr.org/cgi/content/ much loved as companion animals like abstract/40/3/365. dogs and cats, are forced to endure 3. Johnson, Paula D. (October 8, 2004). Rabbits invasive procedures in the name of as Research Models: Research Animal Models. ‘science.’ Although rabbits are most Retrieved December 15, 2006, from http://www. often associated with product testing, uac.arizona.edu//notes/classes/rabbitmod/ they are also utilized in biomedical rabbitmod/rabbitbiomod04.htm. research in a variety of areas, including 4. ibid. eye, heart, stroke, and STI research. 5. ProSpec-Tany TechnoloGene LTD. Retrieved Rabbits are also used extensively in December 20, 2006, from http://www.prospec. polyclonal antibody production. co.il/~prospec/cart/customer/home.php?cat=10. However, the reliability of data 6. Ebiotrade. Retrieved December 20, 2006, from secured from research involving http://www.ebiotrade.com/buyf/productsf/ biodesign/Polyclonal%20Antibodies%20for%20C rabbit use is questionable when trying ancer%20Research.htm. to extrapolate this information to human conditions. Vast differences in 7. Charles River Laboratories. Research Models and Services. Retrieved on January 3, 2007, anatomy, physiology, and metabolism from http://www.criver.com/research_models_ make it prudent to seek other methods and_services/antibody_production_services/ of research investigation such as polyclonal_antibodies.html. epidemiological and clinical studies.

Rabbits Used in Antibody Production

Antibodies harvested from rabbits, mice, goats, sheep, horses, guinea pathological changes. Other concerns stem from how the injections pigs, hamsters, and chickens are used daily in everything from basic are administered, the amount of blood collected from the animal, the biological research to disease diagnosis to home pregnancy tests. restraint, sedation, or anesthesia used to collect the blood, and how the Antibodies are a normal part of the immune system, responsible for animals are housed. If these details are not carefully considered, the recognizing proteins and other molecules from foreign sources so that rabbits are likely to suffer considerable pain and distress. these ‘intruders’ can be cleared away. Because each antibody is very Recognition of the impact that antibody production has on animal specific, having the ability to recognize a particular region of a particular welfare has led several institutions and nations around the world to molecule, scientists have discovered a variety of useful applications for establish guidelines and protocols to minimize the pain and distress the antibodies beyond normal immune function. animals suffer. Such recognition has also encouraged the development Rabbits are scientists’ animal of choice for the production of one of of alternatives for the production of another class of antibodies known as the main classes of antibodies: polyclonal antibodies, or PAbs. While monoclonal antibodies, and will perhaps spur adoption of alternatives PAbs can be obtained from other animals, rabbits are preferred because that will save rabbits from the pain and distress caused by PAb production they are a convenient size, are docile and easy to handle, and are readily as well. available. Currently, the only way to obtain PAbs is from a living animal,

thus the widespread use of antibodies in science and medicine involves a Resources substantial number of rabbits. Leenaars, M., & Hendriksen, C.F.M. (2005). Critical Steps in the Production Invasive procedures that occur during each of the two main phases of Polyclonal and Monoclonal Antibodies: Evaluation and Recommendations. Institute for Laboratory Animal Research (ILAR) Journal 46(3), 269-279. Retrieved of antibody production—(1) injection of a foreign substance to elicit December 5, 2006, from: http://dels.nas.edu/ilar_n/ilarjournal/46_3/html/ an immune response, and (2) blood collection to harvest the resulting v4603Leenaars.shtml antibodies—can cause pain and distress for the animals involved. The Leenaars, P.P.A.M., Hendriksen, C.F.M., de Leeuw, W.A., Carat, F., Delahaut, choice of substance injected during immunization raises particular P.H., Fischer, R., et al. (1999). The Production of Polyclonal Antibodies in Laboratory Animal. The Report and Recommendations of ECVAM Workshop concerns for animal welfare because various substances have been 35. Alternatives to Laboratory Animals (ATLA) 27(1), 79-102. Retrieved December reported as causing severe inflammation at the injection site and 5, 2006, from: http://altweb.jhsph.edu/publications/ECVAM/ecvam35.htm

14 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 A good resource to learn about rabbit diet is Feeding the Pet Rabbit for Optimal Health by Is a Domestic Rabbit the Cynthia K. Wheat, DVM. As with humans and other companion Right Companion for You? animals, preventative health care is always best. If you keep your rabbit safe and on a good diet, he should stay healthy and By Caroline Gilbert, Founder/Director, Rabbit Sanctuary, Inc. live 10 years or more. Be sure to select a veterinarian who specializes in diagnosing abbits are of a peaceful, be—the kitchen or other main living area and treating rabbits. gentle, quiet nature. At is usually best. S/he wants to be with you the same time, they are fun and share in activities. Don’t shut the It is also helpful to have a good book R and extremely entertaining, rabbit away in an unused room. Select on rabbits available to reference when and they possess a great a convenient location for her/his cage needed. A House Rabbit Primer by Lucile C. sense of comedy. They are intelligent, containing feed and water dishes, hay bin, Moore is excellent. Also be sure to learn affectionate, and very beautiful. But litter box, and resting area. Keep your how to properly handle—how to pick up rabbits are a companion of a different ilk. rabbit in the cage for five days. S/he will and hold—your rabbit. Because rabbits They are devout homebodies and are not learn that ‘this is my place.’ Then try are easily injured, they may not be suitable fond of riding around in the car. They are and leave the cage door open. S/he will companions for small children. not fond of ‘walkies.’ Being prey animals, enjoy cautiously exploring the house but It is a good idea to spay or neuter your rabbits are inclined to dart/dash and leap will always return to ‘her/his place’ to eat, rabbit, even if you have only one. Your unexpectedly into bushes. Also, it should sleep, and use the litter box. Additionally, rabbit will be healthier since spaying be mentioned that rabbits disdain playing try to establish a routine, especially prevents uterine cancer, and neutering ball, because, to their thinking, ball is concerning feeding. This will make your prevents testicular cancer. Additionally, the ‘sport of predators.’ The following rabbit feel more comfortable and secure. your rabbit will be more content, and are some helpful tips to consider when unwanted behaviors such as spraying deciding whether or not a rabbit is the Good Health urine will be eliminated. right companion for you. Rabbits require large amounts of fiber Rabbits are gregarious animals, so, to remain healthy. An improper diet is if possible, welcome two or more into Bunny Preparation the main cause of many diseases. Chronic your home, and try to introduce them If you are interested in having a rabbit soft stools, liver and kidney disease, simultaneously. A neutered male and a companion, visit a local animal shelter gastrointestinal disorders, dental disease, spayed female is a sure bond, but often or rescue group. Or perhaps you can and obesity are all attributed to improper rabbits of the same sex will bond as well. carry out your own rescue! If you know diet. Obesity can cause a rabbit to Spend as much time as possible with your of a rabbit in your neighborhood who is develop diabetes and heart disease. The rabbits. These mysterious little friends languishing in a cage, no longer wanted two major components of a healthy diet have so much to share. by his owners, offer to adopt her/him. are (1) hay and (2) fresh veggies and leafy The mission of the Rabbit Sanctuary greens. Commercial rabbit chow may Keep your rabbit safe indoors, and is to provide a HOME FOR LIFE for be fed, but only 1/4 cup per five-seven before you bring your rabbit home, rescued domestic rabbits. Visit them at pound rabbit. A small slice of fruit in make sure you have ‘bunny proofed’ www.adopt-a-rabbit.org. your house. Rabbits are chewers, so tidy season makes a good treat. up! Get all clothes, shoes, books, papers, electrical, phone, and computer wires— everything—out of your rabbit’s reach. Not only do you want to protect your things, but all these materials (especially carpet fibers), when ingested by your rabbit, form an undigested mass in the stomach or gastrointestinal tract that almost always proves fatal. Never leave your rabbit outdoors unattended unless he is in secure, predator proof containment that he cannot dig out of and that has a covered top. Also, it is risky to let your rabbit accompany you in the yard or patio unless you have a secure fence. Even then, do not take your eyes off your rabbit for a moment! A screened porch is preferable. Before you bring your rabbit home, decide where you want ‘her/his place’ to

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 15 rabbits are euthanized at shelters because of difficulty finding homes for them. To avoid adding to this problem, all of the responsibilities associated with having a rabbit should be considered before bringing one home. It is also important to know that rabbits have an average lifespan of 10-12 years, and will likely be a family companion for many years. And since rabbits are not usually interactive playmates for children, the novelty of the new companions can wear off, and the children may neglect the animals. Because of this, it is important that we teach our children that animal life has intrinsic value and does not exist simply for our own needs. Families can begin new spring traditions by taking the opportunity to teach children to see beyond their own needs with the character building lessons of humane education. For example, parents and children can observe rabbits living in the wild, whether in their backyard or in a park. They can also borrow books and videos about rabbits from the local library What Rabbits Can Teach Us to learn more details of how they live. Parents can purchase their child a toy about Character-Building stuffed rabbit so that children can become used to the idea of the responsibility of By Laura Ducceschi, MA, Director of Animalearn caring for a companion animal before a real one is brought home. Families can visit a rabbit sanctuary, and children can donate any spare change they received s we near the end of the winter springtime, they envision the rabbit as a during the holidays to the rabbits living at season, we begin to feel the symbol of many traditions, and parents the sanctuary. Parents can supervise their energy and potential that the and guardians sometimes succumb to children in helping to clean up certain spring can offer. For many a child’s persistence to ‘own’ a rabbit A areas where rabbits live. children, the spring thaw during the holiday times. Some parents brings the opportunity to escape from wish to surprise their children with a There are many creative ways that their homes and venture out to investigate rabbit as a companion animal, leaving parents can use humane education the new life that is growing around them. the children out of the decision-making techniques to teach children about It is a perfect opportunity for parents, process. Unbeknownst to many parents, rabbits. This opportunity can then be guardians, and educators to begin the they may be doing their child a disservice a platform for further discussions and dialogue of humane education, which by teaching the wrong kind of lesson activities about other animals. includes teaching empathy and respect about the appreciation and value of Animalearn offers comprehensive humane for the value of all life, while infusing animal life. education curriculum and presentations to character-building lessons into these Some families are well prepared to parents, guardians, and educators who want young naturalists. welcome a rabbit as a new addition to the to teach valuable lessons of appreciation and Children can observe and appreciate family, and make wonderful guardians for value of all life. “Next of Kin,” Animalearn’s animal life in their natural habitat; these gentle and deserving companion humane education curriculum, is available for they can understand nature’s delicate animals. The majority of families, grade levels 2-5 and 6-9, free of charge. ecological balance and their role in however, get caught up in the symbolism helping to care for the environment; of the spring holidays and underestimate and they can witness through direct acts the present and future care requirements of caring how they have the potential involved in welcoming a new member to to make a difference in the lives of their family at such a busy time of year. human and non-human animals. These Unfortunately, this results in an opportunities for character development influx of thousands of rabbits who are are not to be missed, since they help abandoned in the woods or brought children add meaning to their own lives. to humane societies and shelters when When many children think of spring fades into summer. Many of these

16 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 Humans have a very confounding and conflicting relationship with rabbits. They are exploited for meat and fur, and they are victimized as tools of testing and research. Conversely, they are also loved as some our favorite fictional characters and befriended as companion animals. Such a dichotomy in societal values is troubling, especially knowing that rabbits are highly social, inquisitive animals. Most of us have met a rabbit at some point, or at least seen one in our backyards or at the park. But what do we really know about rabbits? As with people, sometimes having more familiarity with animals can help us appreciate them even more. Below are some interesting facts about rabbits.

 Rabbits are not rodents; they  Just like dogs and cats, rabbits  Pine and cedar bedding may are classified as lagomorphs. who are spayed/neutered give off gases that can cause live longer healthier lives and liver damage in rabbits and  A male rabbit is a buck, a are at less risk of developing other small animals. female a doe, and a baby reproductive related cancers a kit. and other diseases.  Rabbits have been known to make friends with their dog  Rabbit pregnancy averages  Like cats, rabbits can purr. and cat companions. 31 days.

 A four pound rabbit will drink  In many different cultures,  Rabbits eat their own ‘night as much water as a 20 pound rabbits are used as symbols of droppings’ called cecotropes, dog. fertility and rebirth. nutrient-packed, partially

digested pellets, the products  Wild rabbits can be found  Because a rabbit’s eyes are of the first stage of digestion. on every continent except located on the sides of her Not only are these pellets high Antarctica. Although not head, she is able to see behind in nutrition, but they also indigenous to Australia, there her. However, this also causes contain important bacteria is a large population of rabbits a blind spot in her forward that are essential for good who were brought over by vision. rabbit health. European ancestors.  Rabbits live in warrens, a series  Rabbits are physiologically   Some rabbits are capable of connected underground incapable of vomiting. of jumping 36 inches or tunnels. even higher!  A rabbit’s teeth never stop  Rabbits are naturally social growing, and can grow up to  Rabbits can be litter trained, animals who live in groups five inches a year! just like cats! called herds.

 There are 45 different breeds  Rabbits sweat through of rabbits. their feet.

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 17 By Paulette Lincoln-Baker, Volunteers Director, RabbitWise®

THE PLIGHT OF THE MEAT RABBIT

18 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 T o d a y , r a b b it s d o n ot e v e n h a v e the m e a ge r p r ote c tio n of the H u m a n e m E T H O d s of s L a u ghte r A c t .

he rabbit as a companion run rampant in such overcrowded inspection is conducted as a volunteer pay animal maintains a unique conditions. for service program.8 status unlike that of dogs When the growing out period ends, Earlier this year, East Bay Animal T and cats in the United States. rabbits are loaded into trucks and Advocates documented conditions at However, each year, over shipped, sometimes over long distances, to Cloverdale Rabbit Company, California’s 200,000 producers nationwide raise eight processing plants to be slaughtered. The second-largest commercial rabbit meat million rabbits to be slaughtered for size of the rabbit determines the method slaughterhouse. Its investigation exposed 1 human consumption. of slaughter. Per the guidance of the some of the grim conditions endured Unlike house rabbits who, when American Veterinary Medical Association, by ‘battery rabbits,’ as animal advocates nurtured indoors by their human if a rabbit is less than 2.2 pounds, the most refer to the animals. These conditions companions, can live up to 10 to 12 years, humane method of killing is by cervical included intensive confinement in wire meat rabbits can expect to live only 56 to dislocation.5 This is achieved by holding cages, unsanitary conditions, and denial 70 days confined in wire battery cages.2 the rabbit firmly by the rear legs and of veterinary care for sick rabbits.9 Most female rabbits are forced to produce head and stretching him/her full length. RabbitWise® is an all-volunteer 501c3 public five to eight litters a year, a physical toil With a hard, sharp pull, the head is bent charity that advocates for domestic rabbits. frequently devastating to the health of backwards, dislocating the neck. Fryer Please visit them at www.rabbitwise.org. both mother rabbit and her babies.3 The rabbits, however, are marketed at four United States Department of Agriculture to six pounds, rendering this means of reports that “mortality when the kits are slaughter difficult. Methods used to kill Resources in the pre-weaning stage can be up to these larger rabbits include smashing the 40 percent.” Enteritis (inflammation of skull with iron pipes, slitting the rabbit’s 1. “Agricultural Alternatives.” (1994). Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences the intestinal lining, which can cause throat and hanging the body upside down Cooperative Extension. fatal diarrhea) often occurs when baby to bleed out, and decapitation. Many 2. “Industry Report.” East Bay Animal Advocates. rabbits are forced to eat solid food before small-time breeders sometimes kill the Retrieved November 10, 2006, from http://www. they reach three to four weeks of age.4 rabbits using pellet guns or by standing rabbitproduction.com/Industry_Report.html. Additionally, respiratory problems may on a broom handle laid over the rabbit’s 3. “U.S. Rabbit Industry Profile.” (June 2002). develop due to premature weaning. neck, breaking the neck.6 In most cases, APHIS. Retrieved on November 10, 2006, from http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Separated from their mothers, the the rabbits are conscious at the time of slaughter. 4. Krempels, Dana, Ph. D. “The Mystery of Rabbit babies are moved into ‘grow-out’ cages. Poop.” Retrieved on November 10, 2006, from The ‘fryers,’ as young rabbits are called in Today, rabbits do not even have the http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/poop.html. the slaughterhouse industry, live nine to meager protection of the Humane 5. “2000 Report of the AVMA Panel on 10 weeks crammed into these cages (six Methods of Slaughter Act (HMSA). This Euthanasia.” (2002). Retrieved on November 10, rabbits confined to a space the size of a law, passed in 1958, protects only certain 2006, from http://www.avma.org/issues/default. asp. legal-size sheet of paper) until they reach animals (e.g. cows and pigs) from being 6. “Easter Is No Holiday for ‘Meat’ Rabbits.” ‘slaughter weight.’ They have no room to killed inhumanely. According to the HSUS. Retrieved on November 10, 2006, from hop and play. HMSA, these animals are supposed to http://www.hsus.org/farm/news/ournews/ These conditions, interfering with a be stunned into unconsciousness before rabbitslaughter. rabbit’s natural behavior, result in rabbits being killed. Poultry, however, was never 7. Hawthorne, Mark. “Battery Bunnies.” Retrieved on November 10, 2006, from http://www. biting each others’ ears and plucking at included in the Act, and in 2005, the rabbitproduction.com/Rabbits_as_Poultry.html their fur. Unlike cats and dogs, rabbits USDA’s Animal Disposition Reporting System grouped rabbits with poultry to 8. “U.S. Rabbit Industry Profile.” (June 2002). have no pads on their feet, so standing APHIS. Retrieved on November 10, 2006, from on the wire bottoms of these cages all eliminate the requirement to inspect http://www.aphis.usda.gov. 7 day wears away at their thin layer of fur, rabbit slaughterhouses. According to the 9. “Easter Is No Holiday for ‘Meat’ Rabbits.” cutting into the flesh, creating sore hocks. USDA 2002 Rabbit Industry Profile, USDA HSUS. Retrieved on November 10, 2006, from Many rabbits suffer from urine scald inspection is only done at a few processing http://www.hsus.org/farm/news/ournews/ when forced to sit in their urine for long plants nationwide. Since rabbits are rabbitslaughter. periods of time, and respiratory problems not classified as livestock, the USDA

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 19 Cloned Animals: It’s About More MediaWatch Than Food Safety While reading the recently published opinion pieces on cloned food (Oct. 22-23), I was struck by how the serious animal welfare n November, the American Anti-Vivisection Society and ethical concerns raised by animal cloning often get lost launched its End Animal Cloning campaign in an effort to amidst the discussion of food safety. stop the cloning of animals for food due to the enormous animal suffering involved and the overwhelming For instance, do people know that, according to data from the inefficiency of animal cloning. As part of this effort, AAVS Roslin Institute (where Dolly was famously cloned), over 99% of petitioned the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), cloning attempts typically fail, resulting in aborted fetuses and requesting that the agency prohibit the sale of cloned newborns with such severe health problems or deformities that animals for food, establish an ethics committee on the they usually die within a few days? Or that hundreds of female subject, and implement a labeling program should cloned animals are subjected to invasive procedures to harvest their animals make it to supermarket shelves. AAVS also released a eggs or implant embryos so that just one cloned animal can be report entitled “What about the Animals? The truth about cloning produced? animals for food,” which outlines our ethical and scientific concerns These are readily verifiable facts, not fear-mongering. Iregarding animal cloning. Additionally, AAVS commission a survey Contrary to what proponents of animal cloning say, a clone is which found that a vast majority of Americans, over 65 percent, do clearly not just a twin. At a time when consumers are becoming not approve of cloning animals for food and 87 percent feel that increasingly more conscious of how their food is produced and the government needs to open a public discussion on the ethics of how animals are raised for food—issues ranging from organic animal cloning before permitting them to be sold as food. standards, to additives and hormones, to cage-free eggs, to free-range beef—it is important to call attention to these On December 25, 2006, The Washington Post published an article hidden costs. Even if it is safe to eat, is a more uniform or better citing AAVS’s survey. Three days later, the FDA announced that it marbled slab of beef really worth it? Just because a food can be would permit the sale of cloned animals for food. However, there is a produced, should it be? 90 day waiting period before the FDA gives its final approval during The more commonplace such genetic or reproductive which concerned citizens can voice their opposition to this decision. manipulations become, the harder it will be to have a discussion about the ethics of such practices and impose any meaningful Please visit www.EndAnimalCloning.org to learn the truth sorts of limitations. While the FDA’s responsibility is to look behind the misinformation that the FDA and the biotech industry at science and not ethics, we clearly need a forum, such as a are claiming about cloning. Then inform the FDA about your federal ethics advisory committee, to more thoroughly discuss concerns with cloning animals for food. The FDA is accepting the serious animal welfare and ethical concerns associated with comments until April 2, 2007, and the feedback the FDA gets from cloning animals for food. It is critical that this happen before the concerned consumers like you will affect its final decision. Electronic FDA makes a decision on allowing cloned milk and meat onto our comments can be submitted at http://www.fda.gov/dockets/ grocery store shelves. ecomments. Written comments may be sent to Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Nina Mak, AAVS Research Analyst Lane, Rm. 1061, Rockville, MD, 20852. Comments should reference USA Today docket number 2003N-0573. A sample letter is available at Submitted October 24, 2006 www.EndAnimalCloning.org.

FDA Policy vs Public for Food, Nutrition, and Agriculture It is also points out that “the public is Acceptance Policy which found that only one woefully ignorant about the science….” An informative article in The third of those polled would purchase For example, the University of Washington Post discussed the animal clones for food, the article Maryland poll found that half of those FDA’s plans to allow cloned animals continued, “[a] second poll, by the surveyed believed it was not possible to be sold as food and the public’s American Anti-Vivisection Society, to clone farmed animals for food distaste for such technology entering which opposes cloning on animal- despite the existence of an “estimated the food chain. Noting that some welfare grounds, found that two-thirds 150 clones out of the nation’s nine consumer advocates believe that of Americans—and three-quarters million dairy cows.” Nearly 60 FDA has “veered from its scientific of women—‘disapprove’ of cloning percent think that cloning involves roots…on political rather than scientific animals for food.” The article further genetic modification, when in fact grounds,” the author outlines the discusses the polling data, noting cloning is the duplication of genetic FDA’s acceptance of cloning animals that two-thirds of respondents who material, not the altercation of it. for food, despite public opposition. originally claimed they approved of cloning animals for food said “they Risk Weiss First citing a survey commission by would disapprove if they learned that The Washington Post the University of Maryland’s Center cloning involved ‘animal suffering.’” December 25, 2006

20 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 Stand Up for Animals and education is a preventative and effective Request a Compassionate Fighting Animal way to deal with the issue of animal Shopping Guide cruelty, and it is a proven technique Cruelty with in building ethical respect for life that In October, the New York Humane Education extends not only to animals, but to Post ran an informative humans as well. article about class B In response to Bill Hanna’s Nov. 15 Organizations like Animalearn can dealers, also known as article about two Texas college students help school systems address this cycle animal brokers. The article being indicted for the brutal killing of a of violence early in a student’s lifespan, discussed many issues horse, I believe that a reactive response and at no cost to the taxpayer, in order regarding class B dealers, to this issue of animal cruelty is only to prevent similar situations from including the methods part of the action that needs to be taken occurring in the future. in which brokers obtain to prevent similar situations of violence animals and the poor living in the future. conditions in which dogs Laura Ducceschi, As the Director of Animalearn, and cats are forced to live. Additionally, AAVS Education Director a non-profit humane education it explained that class B dealers routinely The Star-Telegram program in Pennsylvania which focuses sell these animals, many of whom formally Submitted on providing free curriculum and lived in loving homes, to laboratories to November 20, presentations to K-12 schools and be used in biomedical research. 2006 colleges/universities nationwide to To help concerned citizens take action, eradicate the cycle of violence and the article included several things that can cruelty towards animals and humans, be done to help alleviate animal suffering. I believe that incidents like this are Among those things listed was to shop clear warning signs that school systems cruelty-free. The AAVS Compassionate need to proactively address problematic Shopping Guide was given as a reliable cycles of violence early. Research resource to find companies that do not shows that violence towards animals test on animals. is a proven starting point towards aggression and harm towards New York Post human beings. Humane October 22, 2006

Animal Dissection is Anything FDA, Ethics, & GE Food already begun using the same arguments that it used to avoid But Fashionable Thank you for calling attention labeling GMOs—that cloned In the Nov. 19 article, “The Sartorial to the serious lack of labeling of food products seem to be virtually Meets the Biological,” a frog dissection genetically-modified foods in the indistinguishable from their kit offered from Jack Spade was described U.S. (“GMO Produce: Safe to Eat?,” conventional counterparts. as “a sincere expression of affection for Your Health, Nov/Dec 2006). the natural world.” On the contrary, The FDA’s refusal to require the Consumers need to let the I have spoken to countless students FDA know that it is completely and teachers who find frog dissection labeling of GMOs, which prevents unacceptable to put these foods in ethically unacceptable and instead utilize consumers from fully exercising dissection alternatives. their right to choose what foods our grocery stores. Distinguishable or not, cloned foods come As a representative of Animalearn, they want to feed their families, is the education division of the American astounding. packaged with serious ethical questions about animal welfare, Anti-Vivisection Society, I encourage Now we are facing a similar Jack Spade to promote appreciation for food safety, and the genetic confrontation over cloned foods. wildlife by taking these kits off the market manipulation of living beings. The The FDA is considering allowing and recognizing the important role live government needs to establish milk and meat from cloned animals frogs have in their ecosystems. an ethics advisory committee to into grocery stores without any Marketing a frog dissection kit is not publicly discuss these issues before labels at all. stylish, thrilling, or fun as Jack Spade it’s too late. We simply can’t afford designer Matt Singer may lead customers The FDA has repeatedly stated to have cloned products infiltrate to believe. Jack Spade should stick to that it will consider the ethics our food supply the way GMOs selling stylish men’s wear and accessories, associated with cloning, including not frog carcasses. have. labeling concerns, but with a Nicole Green, AAVS Assistant Director decision due out in the next few Nina Mak, AAVS Research Analyst of Education months, it has yet to act on this E Magazine The New York Times promise. Instead, the FDA has Submitted November 20, 2006 Submitted November 14, 2006

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 21 Down the Rabbit Hole

22 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 Living with our Wild Neighbors

By Kristine Rawls, AAVS Intern

As a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer, one of the animals with whom Q. How can I tell if a rabbit needs immediate I most often came into contact was the eastern cottontail rabbit medical attention? (Sylvilagus floridanus). Although there are more than a dozen species A. The rabbit needs help as soon as of wild rabbit native to the United States, the eastern cottontail is possible if any of the following conditions the most plentiful, found not only in the east as the name implies, apply. If the rabbit has been the victim of a cat or dog attack; or if physical but throughout the south, midwest, and pacific northwest, as well. injuries are present, such as bleeding These shy creatures are plentiful in forests, suburbs, and urban cuts or puncture wounds, a broken limb, or obvious broken bones, he will neighborhoods, making contact with human neighbors quite need immediate medical attention. common. As a result, orphaned and injured rabbits were frequent Other physical evidence that medical guests at the rehab, particularly in the spring. Inquiry phone calls intervention is necessary includes crusty eyes/impaired vision, skin covered with about rabbits were also frequent, from well-meaning animal lovers oil, tar, or another unknown substance, or wanting to know whether they could keep the fuzzy baby bunny entanglement in debris such as a string, unearthed from their flower bed as a pet, to frustrated gardeners net, or trap. Symptoms such as staggering, convulsing, collapse, or unconsciousness desperate for humane ideas to keep hungry rabbits out of their require emergency treatment. You may lettuce plants. Here are answers to some popular rabbit questions. also check for indicators that a rabbit is orphaned, including starvation or dehydration (extreme thinness or skin Q. I found a baby bunny in Q. HOW DO I KEEP THE RABBITS hanging loosely), skin which is cool my backyard, and I don’t OUT OF MY GARDEN? or cold to the touch, and fly eggs or see the mother anywhere. A. Most garden supply stores, hardware maggots on the skin. A baby rabbit Can I raise him myself? stores, and even supermarkets carry should be plump, warm and healthy; Can I keep him as a pet? commercial repellents, but their cost, if his parents are dead, he will need effectiveness, and environmental A. In most states, there are laws professional care in order to survive. banning anyone but a licensed wildlife friendliness may vary. Some experts While seeking help, do not attempt rehabilitator from keeping native wildlife, recommend chrysanthemums or to administer food or fluids yourself. If both for the protection of the wildlife and marigolds planted at the borders of a necessary, secure the rabbit in a warm, dry, the safety of the public. More importantly, garden because their odors are believed quiet place, away from pets and children babies who appear to be orphaned may to repel rabbits. However, the best method who might cause the animal more stress. just be waiting for their mother to return; for preventing rabbits from consuming For further information, or to locate mother rabbits feed their offspring at your vegetables is the installation of the nearest wildlife rehabilitator in your dawn, leave the nest all day, and return an 18-24 inch high fence of one-inch area, see the resources listed below. poultry wire. (Larger openings are to feed them again at dusk. Finally, wild easy for rabbits to squeeze through!) rabbits are easily stressed and have a high mortality rate when raised in captivity,

even by experts trained in their care. The Resources

best option is always to reunite a baby

with his mother whenever possible. If this The Schuylkill Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic www.schuylkillcenter.org is not possible, or if the baby requires

immediate medical attention, contact Wildlife International the nearest wildlife rehabilitator or www.wildlife-international.org/EN/public/emer- veterinarian for advice and assistance. gency/emergencyrehab.html

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 23 NewsNet New Animal Ethics Centre Launched in UK In November, the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, which aims to raise the status of animals in academia, was established in the United Kingdom. More than 100 academics from both the sciences and the humanities from 10 different countries have agreed to be Advisors for the Centre, “the world’s first academy dedicated to the enhancement of the ethical status of animals through academic publication, teaching, and research.” Regarding the widespread support the Centre has received, Reverend Andrew Linzey, an Oxford theologian and Director of the Centre, said, “The support of such a large number of internationally recognized academics underlines just how important animals are as a moral issue.” One of the core areas of the Centre’s focus is the relationship between animal abuse and violence towards humans, and other projects include an online course in ethics, a new monograph series, and the publication of a new Journal of Animal Ethics. promote ethical attitudes and contribute to informed “We must strive to ensure animal issues are highlighted public debate.” and rationally discussed throughout society—we cannot change the world for animals without changing our You can learn about the Oxford Centre for Animal ideas about them,” said Rev. Linzey. “The Centre will Ethics at www.oxfordanimalethics.com.

18, 2006, was cloned using skin in Hwang Woo-suk’s stem cell First Female Dogs cells from a female Fagan hound research, which was published in Cloned in Korea named Jessica. Two other clones, Science and was determined to be Peace and Hope, were born a fabricated. Lee was suspended for month later in July. The scientists three months by a Seoul National In December, scientists in Korea used somatic cell nuclear transfer, University disciplinary panel announced that they had become the same technology used to clone in July and is in the midst of a the first to clone a female dog. Snuppy, the first dog ever cloned. criminal trial for faking research The Seoul National University data and embezzling research team of scientists were led by Lee Although the cloning has been authenticated, it should be noted funds. If he is found guilty, he Byeong-chun and Kim Dae-yong may be jailed and lose his job. and said that Bona, born on June that Lee has been implicated

New Alternative Could international company that In response to the to reduce and eventually Help Reduce Animal Tests manufactures household and European Union’s upcoming completely replace animal personal care products. The ban on cosmetic testing, use in its company testing. alternative simulates the skin which will be in full effect AAVS will be sure to follow up It was recently announced sensitivity responses that result in 2013, Unilever contacted with Unilever and continue that Entelos, a company from exposure to various Entelos, asking it to develop to monitor its animal testing that specializes in creating chemicals, and its use will a mathematical computer practices. computer simulation models, help to reduce the number model specifically to simulate has developed a “virtual of animal tests conducted in skin allergies. Unilever has patient” for Unilever, an product testing. stated that it is working

24 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 EU Implements INCORPORATING THE THREE Rs Federal Agency On Probation For Its Animal Care New Chemical Testing Program Recently, it was reported in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the laboratories of the Centers for Disease Control The European Union (EU) has and Prevention (CDC) have been on probation since late recently announced that it is adopting 2005 because of “serious program oversight and animal what has been deemed the “world’s strictest chemicals law.” Known as care problems.” Reportedly, the problems were uncovered REACH (Registration, Evaluation, during an inspection by the Association for the Assessment Authorization, and Restriction of and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC), Chemicals), the legislation outlines an international biomedical self-policing organization, and new regulations regarding 30,000 were serious enough that the CDC was at risk of losing its chemicals that are produced or AAALAC accreditation. Laboratory facilities who carry AAALAC imported in quantities of one metric accreditation must meet certain standards and voluntarily submit ton per year. Under REACH, high to regular inspections. volume chemicals must be registered, evaluated, and authorized by the The CDC recently posted an article acknowledging problems Chemicals Agency in Helsinki, Finland. at its laboratories and stated that the violations were being Hazardous substances that have safe corrected. According to the CDC website, violations involved alternatives will not be authorized. infection control problems, multiple biopsy attempts on a single When REACH was first developed animal, and problems with water sipper tubes that resulted in the five years ago, it was estimated that 45 deaths of two animals from dehydration. million animals would be used in the Ensuring that the CDC is conducting its research according program. In an effort to reduce this to established regulations is extremely important, since the number, the European Commission, agency does such important work. The CDC is responsible animal advocacy groups, and industry for researching, tracking, and combating emerging infectious representatives agreed on practical diseases like West Nile. Additionally, doctors rely on the CDC for ways to help lessen REACH’s reliance on animal testing. Prime among them unbiased recommendations on a wide range of medical issues, is the promotion and development including when to vaccinate children and how to treat obesity. of alternatives to animal testing. The Because AAALAC is a private organization, the inspection Chemicals Agency will submit regular reports are not available to the public. However, The Atlanta reports on the use of alternatives, Journal-Constitution has requested the reports through the and validated alternatives have been Freedom of Information Act since the CDC is funded with included in the legislation. (Currently, taxpayer dollars, and the public has a right to know how its 23 alternatives have been validated money is being spent. in Europe and 30 more are in the evaluation process.) Additionally, all testing proposals that involve animal use will undergo a 45 day comment Medical Journal States tests. “Discordance between animal period in order to ensure that all and human studies may be due to bias possible non-animal alternatives have Animal Tests Unreliable or to the failure of animal models to been explored, and companies are mimic clinical disease adequately,” required to share their testing data to In December, the online issue of the research team concluded. For help avoid duplicative animal tests. the British Medical Journal published a example, scientists found that It is believed that the implementa- study that compared human clinical corticosteroids did not help improve tion of these practices will help reduce trials to animal tests. Ian Roberts of head injuries in human clinical trials, the number of animals used in REACH the London School of Hygiene and but did in animal tests. Conversely, to 8-12 million. Although this is still Tropical Medicine, and his colleagues, antifibrinolytics did reduce bleeding an extraordinarily large number, it is compared six treatment protocols: in humans, while findings in animal one third that of the original estimate. corticosteroids to treat head injuries tests were inconclusive. Additionally, Members of the Commission have and respiratory illnesses in babies, tirilazad proved harmful when given to pledged to uphold its part in promot- antifibrinolytics to reduce bleeding, human stroke victims, although it was ing alternatives and to support the con- thrombolysis and tirilazad for ischemic beneficial in treating animals. tinued validation and development of stroke, and bisphosphonates in Comparison studies such as those non-animal alternative testing methods. osteoporosis. highlighted in the British Medical REACH will come into full effect in Researchers found that in half the Journal are extremely valuable because June 2007, and all covered chemicals studies results from animal tests did they help reveal the limitations of must be registered by 2018. not correspond to results in clinical animal models.

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 25 Members Tributes In memory of 8 Foot Bix, the quarter horse, my good buddy and companion Dear friends, for 35 years and one of the family. Last year was a good year for AAVS as we welcomed a new Executive Director and Jerry DeMarco Finksburg, MD began the task of creating new campaigns to challenge the many unnecessary uses of animals in laboratories that still exist in our seemingly modern world. Our hard In memory of all the creatures who work, which is not possible without your support, has enabled us to make 2007 a prompted my respect and pity, leading to my action on their behalf. great year for strategically challenging the needless animal suffering in our country They were and are beautiful in and around the world. every way, deserving of our care. One of these campaigns focuses on the relentless and totally unnecessary use of Carole Rogers Clackamas, OR rabbits in science and product testing. They are creatures we all know and love, they are among the most docile and gentle of our four legged, furry friends, and AAVS is In memory of Philip Trivigno. geared up to put a stop—once and for all—to their presence in laboratories. Kathryn Lezenby So here’s wishing you all a great New Year and a big THANK YOU for your Philadelphia, PA ongoing support of our work, not only through your memberships and donations In memory of Clavin. but through your decision to be cruelty-free conscious consumers. You are the Michael Porteus reason why we can continue to make true and lasting changes for animals in labs. Dublin, OH

Regards, In memory of Maria. Farewell, best half of both of us, thou third who made us two one by Heather Gaghan being only you, pure dog…. Maria Epes Director of Development & Member Services Atherton, CA

In memory of my precious mother Mercedes M. Chop. Carole M. Chop Palmdale, CA

In memory of Our Furry Heartbeats, my dearest friends, the animals; their loves have no boundaries and no imperfections. Sandy Bell Jasper, GA

AAVS Memorial Fund A unique way of paying tribute to kindred animals and animal lovers while making a gift in their name to help stop animal suffering. All AAVS memorial gifts are used for continuing our mission’s work of ending the use of animals in biomedical research, product testing, and education. Memorial donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. With a donation of $50 or more, your memorial will also be acknowledged in a special recognition section of AAVS’s Annual Report. At your request, we will notify the family member or other individual you have remembered as a memorial gift to AAVS.

26 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 Tina Nelson Sanctuary Fund This fund was established to honor the memory of Tina Nelson, AAVS’s Executive Director from 1995-2005. Sanctuaries and their work to provide a safe haven for animals who were once used in laboratories or exploited in other ways were a cause very dear to Tina’s heart. She was a constant champion for all animals and was especially drawn to the plight of primates used in research. This fund will provide support for sanctuaries that provide homes for animals in need, and will also provide a lasting legacy for Tina’s vision and AAVS’s mission to end experiments on animals. If you would like more information on the Fund, please feel free to visit us at www.aavs.org and click on the Support AAVS tab to learn more about the woman who inspired the Fund and how to make a donation. AAVS thanks all those who contributed to the Tina Nelson Sanctuary Fund during 2006. Thanks to you and your generous gifts, AAVS awarded grants to the following sanctuaries this year:

Jungle Friends, FL Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines, PA American Sanctuary This primate sanctuary and Ryerss was awarded a grant in Association (ASA), NV rehabilitation center received a grant special recognition of the extra care ASA provides technical assistance to help support and continue to rescue that is required by several resident to sanctuaries, awarding accreditation monkeys from labs. This sanctuary horses who were previously used in to those that meet criteria. It also is accredited by both TAOS and ASA production of snake anti-venom at a facilitates placements for animals in and comes highly recommended pharmaceutical company; the help crisis, directing interested parties to for standards of care, responsiveness they have given to Premarin foals; and sanctuaries that might be able to intake to needs of animals from labs, and the valuable role Ryerss’ plays working animals, and helps negotiate funding conscientious management. with local cruelty investigators on abuse and other conditions of transfer. In and neglect cases, providing care for many cases, without help from ASA, Mindy’s Memory, OK animals in emergency situations. some research entities simply would Part of the mission of this primate not even try to place animals, since they are not necessarily willing or sanctuary is “to provide a healthy, Animali Farm, CA safe, and humane environment able to research appropriate facilities Animali was awarded a grant in for any primates needing care and on their own. ASA is all volunteer. recognition of their dedication and treatment.” This year, they were in a leadership on the Premarin foal position to receive a dozen macaques Chenoa Manor, PA issue. Their mission is to find loving from a lab if they could raise money Chenoa Manor is a relatively new homes for horses no longer needed for their housing. AAVS’s contact sanctuary and received a grant for in the Premarin industry. The with the sanctuary was very positive; general support. The Manor houses sanctuary is ideally located to help their care for the animals is evident. several rabbits from labs, all of whom with the Premarin issue, due to the are in an excellent habitat, including predominance of horses and foals burrows! This grant acknowledges kept in the western U.S. and Canada. the Manor’s commitment to provide a haven for animals from both Noah’s Ark, GA agricultural and science uses. This is a unique sanctuary that incorporates a residential program for children in need as well as a wildlife rehabilitation center on the same premises. This facility is located near Yerkes National Primate Research Center and is therefore ideally situated to help as a place for monkeys who have the opportunity to leave research.

AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 27 ARDF UPDATE

Look Back but Keep Going This issue of the AV Magazine, focusing on rabbits, recalls the moment in time when alternatives hit the American scene around 1980. It was all about the rabbits then—the Draize eye tests for corrosivity and irritancy to be specific. Organizations like the AAVS and the American Fund for Alternatives to Animal Research (AFAAR), founded by the late Ethel Thurston, stepped up to fund research in order to develop an alternative to the Draize. Companies were motivated to seek alternatives by waves of consumer protest, led by New Yorker Henry Spira.

s a result of activist experiences and observed trends and BOTOX® is in reality a dangerous pressure on companies areas of opportunities. biological product that paralyzes muscles like Revlon, Avon, and Thomas Hartung, the talented Director under the skin. It does temporarily Proctor & Gamble, of the mega-center, ECVAM (European alter appearance, seeming to reduce their trade group, the Centre for the Validation of Alternative facial lines, but each production batch Cosmetic, Toiletry and Methods), recounted the many areas is tested for potency in lethal doses on Fragrance Association, of animal research, especially various mice in the LD50 test. Considering the Atried to prove corporate sincerity by subfields of toxicology, that have working exponential growth in the product’s funding an alternatives center at Johns groups of scientists assigned to hash out market, this translates into enormous Hopkins University called the Center for any and all opportunities to replace, numbers of mice who suffer painful Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT). In reduce, and refine use of animals. deaths due to progressive paralysis. The November 2006, CAAT celebrated its 25th company that profits from BOTOX® Dr. Hartung also presented his report anniversary with a series of meetings and a claims to be investing in the development on the startling scope of work done by symposium highlighting its achievements of alternative approaches as quickly as ECVAM at the meeting of the Scientific and noting changes in the scientific possible. Science advocacy organizations Advisory Committee meeting of the U.S. scene. CAAT’s anniversary observance like ARDF, and scientists in the U.S. and government’s ICCVAM (Interagency was capped by a social event that brought Europe are engaged in trying to ensure Coordinating Committee for Validation everyone together at Baltimore’s fanciful that is the case. American Visionary Art Museum which is ARDF’s presence at scientific gatherings featuring an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind serves as a reminder, in the midst of the exhibit on people’s relationships with mountains of technical reporting, that the ARDF’s presence at scientific animals called “Home and Beast.” animals need urgent intervention and all As one of the leading private nonprofit gatherings serves as a reminder, good effort applied to their relief. funders of alternatives in the U.S., ARDF in the midst of the mountains of participated in the anniversary event, technical reporting, represented by President Sue Leary. that the animals need urgent Professionals in alternatives research and intervention and all good effort development from Europe, U.S., Canada, applied to their relief. New Zealand, and Japan reported on the programs at their respective institutions. England’s new government-funded alternatives research center, NC3Rs of Alternative Methods) in late November. (National Centre for the Replacement, Ms. Leary, who attended, commented Refinement and Reduction of Animals afterwards that she hoped it was an in Research) announced that 80 percent inspiration to the U.S. agency, which is of their grants were awarded to projects embarking on a process to develop a five developing replacement methods. The year plan to enhance its effectiveness. oldest of the centers, FRAME (Fund Ms. Leary also attended a workshop for Replacement of Animals in Medical in November sponsored by ICCVAM on Experiments), also of England, has alternatives to the routine lethal dosing reclaimed its heritage and rededicated of mice in production of BOTOX®, or its resources for a strategic focus on botulinum toxin (type A). Although replacement methods in the coming most people do not relate intense animal years. Representatives from Germany suffering with this ‘cosmetic treatment,’ and the Netherlands shared their vast AV Magazine readers may know that

28 A AV S WINT ER 2 0 0 7 AV MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-VIVISECTION SOCIETY 29 Go cruelty-free!

Know which companies do not test their products or ingredients on animals. Request your FREE Compassionate Shopping Guide today! (800)SAY-AAVS

The American Anti-Vivisection Society 801 Old York Rd., #204 Jenkintown, PA 19046-1685 A Non-Profit Educational Organization Dedicated to the Abolition of Vivisection