AVMA condemns actions of animal rights activists against UCLA research neuroscientist

Citing its policy on the use of animals in research, testing and education, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) today condemned the recent actions of animal rights activists who have targeted a University of California research neuroscientist. The scientist's work includes the use of nonhuman primates to research biochemical factors that contribute to methamphetamine and tobacco addiction in adolescents, as well as to better understand cognitive problems that contribute to behavioral, speech and reasoning disabilities in schizophrenics.

That policy reads, in part, "The AVMA recognizes that animals play a central and essential role in research, testing and education for continued improvement in the health and welfare of human beings and other animals. ... The use of animals used in research, testing and education is a privilege carrying with it unique professional, scientific and moral obligations."

"Rigorous standards have been established to protect the animals involved in biomedical research and to assure they are treated humanely. Institutions and researchers are subject to federal oversight to confirm those standards are appropriately applied and that such research is not only valuable but necessary," says Dr. W. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the AVMA. "Our nation was founded on principles that encourage open and honest debate. But America has no room for terrorist activities that threaten not only that discourse but the lives of our scientists and their families. We condemn all acts of violence, vandalism and intimidation directed toward individuals and facilities engaged in the ethical use of animals for research."

SOURCE American Veterinary Medical Association