Cruelty Free Awareness

Cruelty free awareness and the realization of the horrors of rabbit (as well as all animal) testing has grown exponentially in recent years. Once I became a rabbit mum myself, I made it a mission to be more aware of the products I buy and the companies they are made by.

Rabbits condemned to a life in a lab are housed in isolation, often with the inability to move, suffering from loneliness, stress and boredom as well as extremely painful experiments. Millions of animals suffer and die in chemical, drug, food and product tests each year for the sake of cosmetics, cleaners and medicine. Mind you, it is not just companies that use these animals, but educational institutions as well. (I myself refused to dissect the fetal pig in my 10th grade biology class.)

Cruelty Free Awareness vs. Animal Testing

HISTORY

Cruelty free awareness has really become prevalent over the past 20 years although it’s roots date back decades before that. Advocacy abroad has been a forerunner against animal testing. According to one article I read, rabbit welfare in UK labs has drastically changed trying to improve their quality of life. They are not stuck in cages, but are housed in x-pens, given tunnels and hide aways, treats to eat and hay to chew. Rabbits are involved in little over 2% of all scientific testing with majority of them exposed to mild tests.

1960s and 1970s: Early animal rights activism gained momentum with organizations like the Animal Welfare Institute (founded in 1951) and the Humane Society of the United States (established in 1954). These groups started bringing attention to the ethical treatment of animals in various contexts, including laboratory testing.

1980s: This decade saw increased public awareness and activism against animal testing, spurred by graphic exposes and increased media attention. In 1980, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) was founded and quickly became a significant force in the movement, using high-profile campaigns to highlight the issue.

1990s: The term “cruelty-free” started to become more mainstream. Companies began to label their products as cruelty-free, and consumer demand for ethical products grew. The Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics (CCIC) introduced the Leaping Bunny certification in 1996, providing a standardized cruelty-free certification for products.

2000s and 2010s: The cruelty-free movement continued to grow, with more companies adopting cruelty-free practices and obtaining certifications. Social media and the internet played a crucial role in spreading awareness, with consumers sharing information and advocating for cruelty-free products.

2010s to present: The movement has gained substantial mainstream acceptance. Major beauty and personal care brands have moved towards cruelty-free practices, and legislation in various countries has banned or restricted animal testing for cosmetics. The European Union banned animal testing for cosmetic products in 2013, which was a significant milestone. Other regions and countries, including India, Israel, and Australia, followed with similar bans.

Unfortunately animals used in the United States are not protected under the Animal Welfare Act and there is no ban across the country, however some states such as California, Hawai’i, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Virginia and Washington have passed laws to end the sale of animal tested cosmetics.

TYPES OF TESTS

Testing that rabbits endure is unnecessary, unethical and stressful. Rabbits are notoriously used in the field of cosmetics where they are held in restraints while chemicals are applied to their skin, orally injected or dripped into their eyes. Other than the fact that they are small and easy to handle, there is no clear explanation as to why rabbits are used. They have no tear ducts like humans and their epidermis is different as well.

DRAIZE: This eye test, developed in 1944, assesses eye irritation. Rabbits are restrained while a substance is placed in one eye while the other eye is the control. They can be monitored for up to 14 days for reactions. Symptoms experienced are redness, bleeding, ulcers and blindness. Most often these rabbits are killed after experimentation.

SKIN IRRITATION TEST: Another extremely painful test is the skin irritation test. A chemical is placed on one shaved patch of skin, while a secondary shaved patch acts as the control. Itching, swelling and inflammation are then assessed.

DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICITY TESTS: pregnant females are administered oral substances then killed just before giving birth so their fetuses can be studied for developmental defects.

According to the American Anti-Vivisection Society “Rabbits are used in basic and biomedical research, as models for diseases and disorders of the eyes, skin, heart, and immune system, as well as cystic fibrosis, cancer, and spinal cord injury. Another common use of rabbits is in painful procedures to produce polyclonal antibodies, which are widely used for a variety of research and diagnostic purposes. For medical products such as vaccines, drugs, and medical devices, rabbits are used to test pyrogenicity (the ability of the product to induce a fever).”

Educating our youth about animal testing and promoting cruelty free products is key to the future of these poor rabbits. Peta has a site specifically for education of life as a laboratory rabbit, however I must disclose some of the images are a bit disturbing.

Advocates Against Testing

Many groups have formed to advocate for animal welfare. These non-profits work tirelessly to educate about alternative testing methods and the lack of ethics of animals used in scientific research. You can find a comprehensive list here.

• Humane Society International
• Peta
• Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine
• The Johns Hopkins Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing
• The National Anti-Vivisection Society

In the beginning, there were no set standards for “cruelty free” or “animal friendly” products. Companies defined their own standards and created their own rabbit logo’s. These 8 animal protection groups banded together and formed the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics (CCIC) to promote a cruelty free standard along with an internationally recognized logo for animal friendly products.

• American Anti-Vivisection Society
• Animal Alliance of Canada
• Beauty Without Cruelty
• Doris Day Animal Foundation
• Humane Society of the Us
• National Anti-Vivisection Society
• Rise for Animals
• Cruelty Free International

Rescue Stories

Various groups have been successful in rescuing rabbits from these deplorable conditions. Bunny Bunch rescues rabbits from labs and helps them find furever homes. Currently they have two rabbits, Rudolph and Sophia, on their site. Save The Buns is another group known for liberating rabbits from the laboratory setting. They have a page dedicated to rescue stories on their site. Save the Buns also rescued Donna and Figaro (who were to be studied (then killed according to Newsweek magazine) for cardiology research) who are now living their best cruelty free life at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary! Beagle Freedom Project rescued JellyBean and Cadbury who have been adopted! Between January 2020 and May 2021 SaveABunny and Beagle Freedom Project rescued dozens of rabbits from a lab used for medical testing.

Most of the images I have found of rabbits rescued from laboratory settings have been REW’s (red eyed white rabbits. I can only assume this is due to the fact testing results would be easier to perceive.

Cruelty Free Companies

Cruelty-free companies are businesses that produce and sell products that have not been tested on animals. This commitment extends to both the final products and the individual ingredients used in manufacturing. Cruelty-free companies prioritize ethical practices and seek alternatives to animal testing to ensure the safety and quality of their products. NOTE: not all companies boasting they are cruelty free really are. The finished product may not be tested on animals, but the individual ingredients can be.

No Animal Testing: Cruelty-free companies do not conduct any form of animal testing on their products. This means they do not test finished products or individual ingredients on animals, nor do they commission third parties to conduct animal testing on their behalf.

Certifications: Many cruelty-free companies obtain certifications from recognized organizations, such as Leaping Bunny or PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), to verify their commitment to cruelty-free practices. These certifications provide consumers with assurance that the products meet stringent cruelty-free standards.

Alternative Testing Methods: Instead of animal testing, cruelty-free companies rely on alternative testing methods that are scientifically valid and approved by regulatory authorities. These methods may include in vitro testing (using cell cultures), computer modeling, and human volunteer studies.

Transparent Policies: Cruelty-free companies maintain transparent policies regarding their manufacturing processes and ingredient sourcing. They openly disclose information about their commitment to animal welfare and provide clarity on their stance against animal testing.

Ethical Sourcing: In addition to avoiding animal testing, cruelty-free companies often prioritize ethical sourcing of raw materials. This may involve using sustainable and environmentally friendly ingredients, as well as ensuring fair treatment of workers throughout the supply chain.

Range of Products: Cruelty-free companies produce a wide range of products, including cosmetics, personal care items, household cleaners, and even food and beverages. Consumers can choose from a variety of cruelty-free options across different product categories.

Consumer Awareness: The demand for cruelty-free products has grown significantly as more consumers become aware of animal welfare issues and seek ethical alternatives. Cruelty-free companies cater to this consumer demand by offering high-quality, innovative products that align with ethical values.

Advocacy and Education: Many cruelty-free companies actively engage in advocacy and education initiatives to raise awareness about animal testing and promote cruelty-free practices within the industry. They collaborate with organizations and individuals who share their commitment to animal welfare.

Identifying Cruelty Free Companies

1. Check for Leaping Bunny or PETA Certification: Look for cruelty-free certifications from reputable organizations like Leaping Bunny or PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). These certifications indicate that the company has met strict criteria for cruelty-free practices, including no animal testing at any stage of production.
2. Visit the Company’s Website: Go to the company’s official website and look for a cruelty-free statement or policy. Many cruelty-free companies proudly display their stance against animal testing and provide detailed information about their commitment to ethical practices.
3. Look for Specific Language: Check for specific language that explicitly states the company does not test its products or ingredients on animals. Look for phrases such as “cruelty-free,” “not tested on animals,” “no animal testing,” or “against animal testing.”
4. Review Third-Party Sources: Consult reliable third-party sources that maintain updated lists of cruelty-free brands and companies. Websites like Cruelty-Free Kitty, Logical Harmony, and Ethical Elephant provide comprehensive guides and resources to help consumers identify cruelty-free brands.
5. Contact the Company: If you’re unsure about a company’s cruelty-free status, consider reaching out directly to inquire about their animal testing policies. Send an email or message through social media asking specific questions about their testing practices and commitment to cruelty-free standards.
6. Check for Parent Company Status: Some companies that market themselves as cruelty-free may be owned by larger corporations that conduct animal testing. Research the parent company of the brand to ensure that the entire company, including subsidiaries, adheres to cruelty-free principles.
7. Look for Recognized Symbols: In addition to certifications, look for recognized cruelty-free symbols on product packaging, such as the Leaping Bunny logo or the PETA cruelty-free bunny logo. These symbols provide immediate visual confirmation of a product’s cruelty-free status.
8. Consult Online Resources: Take advantage of online resources and databases that compile lists of cruelty-free brands and update them regularly. These resources can help you make informed choices when shopping for products.

Pharmaceuticals

Identifying cruelty-free drug companies can be more complex compared to other consumer product categories due to the strict regulations and ethical standards in drug development. These may involve animal testing for safety and efficacy purposes mandated by regulatory agencies. Achieving a completely cruelty-free status in pharmaceuticals may present challenges, supporting companies that prioritize animal welfare and invest in alternative testing methods can contribute to positive change within the industry.

1. Alternative Testing Methods: Look for drug companies that actively invest in and utilize alternative testing methods to reduce reliance on animal testing. These methods may include in vitro (cell-based) assays, computer modeling, and human clinical trials.
2. Transparency and Disclosure: Seek companies that are transparent about their animal testing policies and practices. Look for publicly available information on their approach to animal welfare, including efforts to minimize animal use and refine testing protocols.
3. Certifications and Endorsements: While specific cruelty-free certifications may not be applicable to pharmaceuticals due to regulatory requirements, some organizations advocate for ethical and humane research practices in drug development. Support initiatives that promote alternatives to animal testing in the pharmaceutical industry.
4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives: Research drug companies that demonstrate a commitment to corporate social responsibility, including environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing practices. Companies with robust CSR programs may be more likely to prioritize animal welfare considerations.
5. Collaborations and Partnerships: Explore collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and research institutions that focus on advancing non-animal testing methods and promoting ethical research practices.
6. Government Regulations and Compliance: Understand the regulatory landscape governing animal testing in pharmaceutical research. While certain tests may be required by regulatory agencies for drug approval, some companies actively work to minimize animal use and advocate for policy changes to promote alternative methods.
7. Consumer Advocacy and Engagement: Support consumer advocacy groups and initiatives that promote cruelty-free practices in the pharmaceutical industry. Engage with companies directly to inquire about their efforts to reduce reliance on animal testing and promote humane research practices.

Other Alternatives: With more people turning towards the homesteading way of life, try making your own beauty, cleaning products and homeopathic remedies. Not only will you have total control over the ingredients used, but by not buying animal tested products, it will help to send a message to those companies that still impose this type of abuse.

Links to Cruelty Free Guides

Final Thoughts

Cruelty-free companies play a vital role within the consumer goods industry. By choosing to support them, consumers can contribute to the welfare of animals and encourage positive change towards more humane and sustainable practices. Should you ever adopt a rabbit that has been rescued from a laboratory setting, remember it has suffered emotional trauma as well as physical. You can read how to help them here.