Question:
I have visited your Web site and see that you are an advocate of animal rights.What right do you have to promote this political agenda in your column that, as an "Animal Doctor," surely should deal with pet health issues and provide appropriate advice to pet owners?.
R.M., Minnetonka, MN Aug 14, 2005
Answer:
As Albert Einstein wrote, "Religion without science is blind; and science without religion is lame." I believe that human and veterinary medicine without bioethics is unbalanced and likely to do more harm than good. I see animal rights as bioethical principles of proper animal care, respect, protection, welfare, humane treatment, and physical and psychological health.Animals' basic rights include:-- The right breeding to avoid/eliminate hereditary diseases-- The right nutrition-- The right rearing (socialization) and understanding of animal's physical and emotional needs-- The right relationship and respect, which includes appropriate training and handling-- The right environment, like not being caged all day, and being given exercise and freedom to explore and play-- The right veterinary care as needed, including euthanasia when called forThese are the cornerstones of holistic, preventive veterinary medicine and human husbandry for all domesticated and captive, wild species.
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