Today, animal rights is the concept many people use to define animal welfare. Animal well-being as a societal issue is assuming greater prominence in areas such as agriculture, research, education and entertainment. Animal abuse and cruelty continue to be focal points for all concerned with animal welfare.
In society, groups and individuals addressing these concerns take a variety of stances. They range from people who wish to safeguard an animal's well-being to others who would abolish all uses of animals not directly beneficial to the individual animal. The public looks to the veterinary profession for leadership and guidance in these complex moral debates. As a veterinary medical student, you should be concerned and informed about the issues of animal welfare and animal rights. Be assured, we do not use animals in your education unless deemed essential to your future competence as a veterinarian.
