[Gpdd] [MISC] <comment on USDA policies>

[petunia_loo at yahoo.com]

Dear GPDDers,

It has come to my attention that comments will be
accepted by this coming Nov. 2 regarding the USDA's
decision to potentially change some of its policies
regarding the care of certain rats, mice and birds by
industries that profit from their use. 

The Animal Welfare Act establishes standards for
animals used in many industries, including research.
Yet, it explicitly excludes rats, mice and birds, a
politically-motivated exclusion. According to the
Johns Hopkins University's Center for Alternatives to
Animal Testing, 90% of research animals in the US are
rats, mice and birds! 

Here are sites that you can visit for more information
 on the topic and instructions on how to write or
email the USDA by NOV. 2nd, including suggestions on
what to include in your letter:

http://www.hsus.org/ace/21600
http://www.saplonline.org/Alerts/birm98-106-4/index.htm
http://caat.jhsph.edu/issues/animalwelfare.htm

Thanks!
Lauren, Piglet and Pooh

=====
EACH YEAR in the United States, MILLIONS of healthy companion animals are euthanized simply because they can not find homes.
Adopt a homeless pet.
Become a foster home.
Have your cats and dogs spayed and neutered.


Join the Guinea Pig Rescue Transport Group!
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gpig_transport


		
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