Proceedings of the Vertebrate Pest Conference

Many animal rights activists are very vocal in their belief that animals are more valuable or at least equally important to humans. There is little to no compromise in their overall view that the use of animals for food, fiber, teaching, research and testing does not result in improvements for other animals or societal needs. Today's activists are well prepared and very articulate in getting their views across to the public through the press and television media. An increasing number of the public is beginning to believe the activist allegations of inhumane animal practices. The biologist can no longer ignore these allegations: each of us must become active vocal proponents of the benefits of what we are doing and that we are caring people who practice the highest standards of animal welfare.