IMPORTANT NOTE: This document is reproduced for reference purposes only, it contains false and unsubstantiated claims designed to mislead the public. It MUST be viewed in conjunction with its rebuttal (which can be viewed by selecting this link).

 

This allows the site of the operation to be precisely identified.  It also prevents involuntary head movements causing damage to delicate tissues during the operation.  Animals are kept unconscious with an anaesthetic during such operations.

The Draize test:
The Draize test is not used in Australia or New Zealand, but some medicines we use here have been tested overseas using this method.

It is used for testing new medicines and other compounds for possible irritant effects on the eyes.  It forewarns us of the dangers to our eyes at home or work.

The test involves applying a small amount of a substance to the eye of the rabbit to test for inflammation.  Its effect is then carefully watched.  Testing stops immediately if a reaction is seen.

Only relatively mild substances are subject to the Draize test.  Products which have been shown to be corrosive to the skin are never tested on rabbits' eyes.

While scientists have managed to modify this rarely used test, as yet no reliable alternative has been found.

 

Burn research:
The anti-vivisection video "Hidden Crimes" shows the use of a blow torch on a pig.  This was filmed at an American defence research institute during the Second World War some 50 years ago.

At that time many pilots and aircrew were dying from burns to as little as 5 per cent of their body surface.  As a direct result of this research, people with burns to as much as two-thirds of their body can now be successfully treated and return to a normal life.

This sort of research would obviously be unacceptable today.  But it is worth reflecting on the pressures of a World War and the human lives which were saved then and continue to be saved now as a result.

 

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