How do you feel about animal testing?I have a student working on a senior portfolio and a service project to make people aware of animal testing...

I think that using animal models is better than directly
testing on humans initially. I am of the opinion that using laboratory rats and other
organisms to benefit people is not morally wrong. Eventually, the new drug or therapy
will progress to human trials, but putting humans at risk initially is something I
wouldn't agree with. While computer simulations may increase our knowledge, they can
never replace real interactions between cells, tissues and organs. Many of the test
subjects come from pounds and most are euthanized after the experiment. Experiments in
genetics, xenotransplantation, behavioral studies, toxicology and drug research have all
used animals as their test subjects. Not only are vertebrates used, but many
invertebrates are used as well. Armadillos can be used to research Hansen's disease
(leprosy) because they can catch this disease, just as humans can. Using animals for
testing can be traced back to Aristotle, therefore, it is a practice that has its roots
in our ancient history. Until something else can be developed, this is our best way to
allow the medical field to progress.