Krebsbach S. Veterinary Professionals Advocating for Alternatives in Veterinary Education. Paper presented at: Alternatives in the Mainstream: Innovations in Life Science Education and Training. 2nd InterNICHE Conference; 2005 May 12-15; Oslo, Norway


Abstract

Interest in alternatives to the harmful and fatal use of animals in veterinary education continues to grow. More and more veterinary students are voicing their ethical concerns and demanding that no animal be harmed or killed for the sake of their education. Through the advancement of technology, the development of skills models, and evolving partnerships with animal shelters and corporations, the practical use of alternatives in the classroom is more viable than ever before.

Veterinary professionals can play an integral role in promoting the use of alternatives in veterinary education and supporting veterinary students who are concerned about the ethical use of animals in their education. This support can done in a variety of ways: for example, participation in internet discussion groups, promoting willed body donation programs to clients, involvement with ethical panel discussions, offering hand-on externships within their clinics, partaking in spay/neuter clinics, and encouraging corporate sponsorship in the purchase of alternatives. Veterinary professionals are in the unique position to provide ethical leadership, and encouragement that a veterinary student need not compromise his or her values to reach the goal of becoming a veterinarian.