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May 2009 Issue Letters to the Editor
What Reduce, Refine, Replace Really Mean
Editor:
The article “Oquendo Center Debuts at Western Veterinary Conference” [April 2009] uses language that misrepresents the concepts of the three R’s. Particularly during this 50th anniversary of the three R’s, it is important that these fundamental concepts of humane animal use in teaching, testing and research not be misconstrued.
While the three R’s is correctly stated as reduce, refine and replace, the article describes those concepts in a way to make their application unclear to those not intimately familiar with their typical meaning.
- “Reduce” refers to using techniques that reduces the use of live animals. This includes improved project design to apply animals more efficiently. It also may include using dead animals that have been killed for other purposes (e.g. unadoptable shelter animals) and thus reducing the need for additional animals. It does not refer to replacing dead animal use with live animals.
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- “Refine” means to utilize the best and most humane practices possible. This may include improved “skills of technicians,” as stated in the article, but it also involves approaches such as better analgesia and euthanasia prior to the used animals regaining consciousness.
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- “Replace” is to use techniques that avoid animal use. Thus, use of mannequins is a replacement technique for live animals and not conversely.
The three R’s have been the core values of animal use for decades. The publication of this landmark work has fundamentally driven improvements in humane animal use.
B. Martin, DVM, Dipl. ACLAM
Toledo, Ohio
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Avoid Vaccinations Whenever Possible
Editor:
I have been in practice for 35 years plus and have found vaccines to always have a negative effect on all my patients [“Titers Join Debate on Vaccine Frequency,” February 2009]. I recommend to all my clients to not vaccinate if at all possible.
It is time for the world to realize that we have made a grave error in judgment and need to get back to healing, not drugging. Our oath states, “Prevent suffering and do no harm.” Vaccines cause harm. We are not following our oath.
I suggest we quit putting trillions of hard-earned dollars into vaccines and put it into clean water, wholesome food and natural healing practices.
Albert Einstein said, “Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I’m not sure about the universe.”
I agree with Albert.
Stephen Blake, DVM
San Diego, Calif.
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Vaccinations Are Safe Till Proven Otherwise
Editor:
I am a practicing veterinarian who offers annual and three-year vaccine protocols and have at times offered vaccine titers. Our practice uses a lifestyle survey to see whether the patient should receive certain vaccines. Titers are a tool, but they tell us very little about how long a vaccine may be protective in a pet.
Claims that we are causing serious illness to our patients by vaccinating need to be proven or established with research before we go publicizing them.
I did not begin extended vaccine protocols until scientific studies showed extended protection and extended duration of immunity.
I have to deal with unsubstantiated claims about pet products from clients who read unsupported information on the Internet. I expect more from my colleagues and want to have valid research to back my decisions.
David Walker, DVM
Raleigh, N.C.
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May 2009 Issue Letters to the Editor
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