John Duerk: UW grossly neglects welfare of animals

A letter to the editor

Dear Editor: After reading the latest list of animal protection regulations that have been violated at the UW-Madison, I can't help but wonder why the government allows this research facility to continue operating. Any sensible person can see that it's managed by people who do not have any regard for animal welfare.

Moreover, I'm shocked that the university would agree to pay a fine, but doesn't have to admit to doing anything wrong. A dog didn't receive proper veterinary care and died, protocols weren't followed correctly, rooms were littered with fecal matter, and both monkeys and a rabbit were killed when their cages were washed. Honestly, does this sound like the university cares for the animals that it vivisects?

And what about the taxpayers who fund all of this research that will never yield results that can be extrapolated to the human condition? They don't seem to care, either. Lives are lost, money is wasted and yet the university continues business as usual.

With all that I have read about the labs over the years, I totally understand why the Animal Liberation Front breaks into these kinds of facilities to save animals from certain death. I mean, it's obvious that the government can't be counted on to protect them.

That's why activists everywhere have to keep speaking out, for one day the lab's doors will shut for good. No justice, no peace.

John Duerk
Rockford, Ill.

Published: July 28, 2006