Blogging About Critters Since 2007

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Thousands Offered for Primate Freedom

An animal rights activist has offered $30,000 to anyone who facilitates the freeing of primates, or the end of vivisection, at the University of Kansas, a place cited for numerous animal welfare violations. He does not condone violent or illegal acts.

Good luck.

2 comments:

Andrew Heaton said...

Ana,

I'm split on this one.

On one hand, I respect Mr. Miller's efforts in being willing to sacrifice so much for what he believes in. I also duly note the poor record of the university with regard to animal treatment as well as the fact that Mr. Miller is not encouraging any form of illegal conduct.

In addition, the notion of the primates being 'rescued' as opposed to being stolen must be given some credence.

That said, though I'm not familiar with the law in this area, I would imagine that the monkeys in question would be considered to be property of the university. So, too, I would imagine, would the facilities in which the research was taken place. I would not be at all comfortable with the idea of any person entering the premisis without appropriate permission and engaging in conduct for which they did not have prior approval from the appropriate authorities.

I could understand arguments on either side. I am divided. I don't know whether I would personally support this or not.

Joe said...

Everyone who keeps nonhuman primates in captivity for scientific or educational purposes or propagation is obligated to be licensed and inspected by USDA with regard to the rules under the Animal Welfare Act. When violations are found, citations are given and corrections must be made within a specified interval. Failure to comply can result is loss of a license to hold nonhuman primates or other animals. This means, of course, that it is in the best interest of animal holding institutions to ensure that they are in compliance--and even, that they are no close to being out of compliance. Constructive efforts to promote improved procedures and quality of life are often welcomed by holding facilities. It is a problem, however, when people oppose all research involving animals, no matter what the quality of care, and seek to end research by any means at all or brand all research as "vivisection" regardless of what procedures are used. I applaud and support efforts to promote the health and well-being of zoo and laboratory animals, and, in fact, I provide consultation and help to design improved facilities. My goal is not to END human involvement with animals but to ensure that the interactions are careful, considerate, and humane--and that as much is learned from each individual as is humanely feasible.

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