Posted by jujube on December 22, 2004, at 14:20:29
In reply to notes, serious and sardonic » jujube, posted by zeugma on December 21, 2004, at 20:37:32
> Unfortunately, the dogs were killed. I share your sentiments about them, and while it is tragic that both species (human and dog) are subject to narcolepsy, it is doubly tragic for a narcoleptic dog to be sacrificed in the name of science... the only consolation is that human understanding of narcolepsy is immeasurably aided by studies with dogs. Since I've never had a pet rat, it doesn't faze me as much, either, that rats are routinely sacrificed in pharmacological studies, although it does bother me. The very fact that rats are used so extensively in these studies (their nervous systems in many ways are closer to humans' than, say, cats'- argues for humane treatment of them, since it implies they are able to feel and suffer.
>
-- Poor animals. And, even though I am not a fan of rats and mice, I do hate the thought of the suffering these little creatures go through. But, I guess if it is in the name of science . . . I'm just glad that I don't have to do the testing. I would be a basket case if I did. I got my dog from the Humane Society, and it was so sad walking through and seeing all the dogs that may never get homes and would likely be destroyed as a result. If I had a farm, I would have taken them all home with me so they would not have to suffer such a fate.> Mouse is the name of his girlfriend, or ex-girlfriend.
-- Must have missed that tidbit of information when I visited the site! Boy, do I feel stupid!
It's amusing to think of his having a mouse that tries out all his meds for him- and even more amusing to think of his describing the mouse as calling a drug "icky" and so forth- I suppose a rodent would have better luck finding a 'bipolar-autistic-spazz' (I'm quoting his self-description, and not intending to be derogatory at all) for an owner, who feeds her all sorts of interesting medications then writes down her 'experiences', than being the property of highly sane, dedicated researchers who have no compunctions over 'sacrifice' after feeding the meds. It's something to think about (I would insert a smiley here, but the subject is a little too grim).
-- Although I don't use my dog as a drug trial subject, I have to say that she has definite opinions on things (food, treats, people and their actions), which she expresses with either a snort or a series of sneezes. Needless to say, she has a lot on her mind at times. I, being the neurotic pet owner that I am, serve as her translater.
Well, take care of yourself, and I'll talk to you another time.Tamara
poster:jujube
thread:430543
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20041212/msgs/432925.html