Every year millions of animals, including dogs, are tested on in laboratories. The dirty side of several industries that many of us are aware of. But the important question is what are we willing to do to stop this gruesome act? What can we do to create a world without animal testing?
While a lot is being done by advocacy organisations working tirelessly to save animals from being tested on, we too can do a lot. We can spread awareness via social media, even be a whistle-blower if we must. In this article, we are listing down three things that we can and probably must do to act against animal testing.
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Say NO to brands, products that test on animals
There are several brands around the world that don’t test on animals. It’s worth trying these brands out even if they don’t offer the same fragrance, lipstick or fabric softener that we love. After all, finding an ethical alternative contributes to a much bigger purpose. Many people are usually under the impression that non-animal tested products must be more expensive. You’ll be surprised to know that it’s not always the case, but a lot depends on your choice of brands and products.
As a family, we started switching to non-animal tested products many years ago. And I’ll be honest in admitting that we spent a lot more initially on such products. But then we started researching and found products that are non-animal tested, ethical and less expensive versus some brands that we were using before.
You can look for cruelty free brands here: PETA
Foster / adopt survivors
Wouldn’t it be great if some of us could foster or adopt dogs who were bred and destined for confinement in cold metal cages but managed to survive the horror as they were rescued?
Yes, they may come with medical conditions that will need attention. Initially they may be afraid of many things, even getting out of metal cages because they have not known a life beyond it. They may not pick up that squeaky toy right away because they don’t know what it is. Some might even fear human touch and get anxious due to loud noises. But nothing that can’t be overcome with love, patience and of course the commitment to care.
Sometimes dogs that have spent a lot of time in laboratories might need special medical attention and thus, need families that are willing to commit. So, when you approach animal welfare organisations that rescue, rehabilitate and rehome these animals, don’t get frustrated if their selection process is lengthy. All they are trying to do is find the right home for every dog under their care. One such organisation operating in India is Freagles of India that rehabilitates and rehomes dogs – currently only beagles – released from testing laboratories in India.
(PC: Beagle Freedom Project)
Support organisations fighting against animal testing
There are many organisations around the world that are fighting against animal testing. One that comes to mind is Beagle Freedom Project. These organisations always need volunteers. And it might be great to join forces with such organisations in our vicinity.
Let’s find our own little ways of creating a world where testing on animals will cease to exist. Let’s commit to becoming ethical, animal-friendly by making a difference with our choices.
