Animals and Medical Research

You have devoted at least four articles, lots of photographs and a column by Al Martinez to the tragic circumstances surrounding the closure of Comfy Kennel and Budget Boarding of Sun Valley, as well as to the human interest side and goals of Last Chance for Animals.

Might I suggest that, if pound seizure of stray, unclaimed animals were still allowed in this country, there might never have been an atmosphere which allowed or encouraged the birth of dog and cat “dealers” who use unscrupulous means to acquire animals which they can sell for profit.

I would commend Messrs. Dyer and DeRose, covered in your article of Feb. 8, for the changes made in their life style consistent with their beliefs. “They do not eat meat, dairy products, eggs or fish, and have gotten rid of all their leather goods.” Might I also suggest that, in order to be truly consistent with their goals of ending all medical research using animals that they also forgo the advantages medical science has offered in the form of vaccinations and antibiotics against deadly diseases, insulin for diabetics, kidney and other organ transplants, coronary bypass operations and arterial graft and heart-lung machine technology, etc. Seeking a cure for AIDS could prove to be most difficult if science is limited to the test tube!

VICKI PORTER-FINK

Sherman Oaks