Support PETA, oppose the FDA's abuse of animals

By Michael J.W. Stickings

I don't always agree with its priorities, nor with its methods and tactics, but, in general, as a proponent of animal rights, I applaud PETA for the work it does to bring attention to, and to fight, the rampant and horrific abuse of animals in our "civilized" society.

This full-page ad appeared in yesterday's Washington Post. It features Andrew Von Eschenbach, the head of the FDA (Federal Dog Abuse). Here's how PETA puts it at its Stop Animal Tests site:

In addition to millions of mice and rats—hundreds of thousands of dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, fish, birds, and primates are poisoned each year with pesticides, industrial chemicals, vaccines, and drugs.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) often require that these substances be tested in at least two animal species, even though these tests do not accurately predict how a substance will affect humans. Beagles have become the dog of choice for most tests because of their size and gentle nature.

These dogs spend their whole lives in barren cages, deprived of everything natural and important to them. They are denied the love of a family, a home, and the freedom to run, play, and feel the earth beneath their feet.

Please. TAKE ACTION. Say NO to the abuse of animals by the U.S. government. Say NO to the abuse of animals period.