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In 2002, over 2.3 million poisoning cases were reported to U.S. Poison Control Centers. Over 92% of these exposures occurred in our homes during the peak hours of 4 and 10 p.m. Children under the age of six were involved in more than 50% of these exposures. When accidents happen or products are misused, product safety testing data helps poison control centers and emergency room doctors understand which exposures are actually harmful and how to treat patients in time to prevent serious consequences. *Source: American Association of Poison Control Centers

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Because the use of animals in research is a privilege, the scientific community advocates the highest quality of animal care and treatment. These animals are helping us unlock the mysteries of disease, and they deserve our respect and the best possible care. A well-treated animal will also provide more reliable scientific results. Several state and federal laws regulate the alleviation and elimination of pain as well as aspects of animal care such as caging, feeding, exercise, and psychological well-being. In addition, each institution has an animal care and use committee that oversees, inspects, and monitors every potential experiment to help ensure optimal animal care.




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Are researchers using more and more animals every year?
The number of animals used in research has actually declined in the past 20 years. As technology advances, researchers are able to rely on computer models and other methods instead of animal testing. Some estimates show a reduction in animal use as high as 50 percent. Since 1967, the number of cats used in research has dropped 66 percent.