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How Many Animals Die So We Can Wash Our Hair?
 I confess, while writing this article I felt
nauseous. The information I gathered was shocking,
going against what I hold dear, the animal kingdom.
My daughter and I believe strongly in the love of
animals. We put our love into action. For example,
once a week we make a trip to our county animal
shelter, bringing some token of supplies to help the
shelter provide care for their charges.
Last week, we brought collars and leashes. The
week before, we gave a small monetary donation. This
week we have canned dog food we will deliver. We
care, and in our small way; try to do what we can.
The sadness I felt while researching this article
gave me clear insight that there is much more we need
to do.
The Facts:
Many industries use animals to test the safety
and effectiveness of consumer products such as
shampoos and cosmetics, in spite of the fact that
there are alternatives to animal testing in this
consumer genre.
 Some of the common animals used in testing are
Cats, Chimpanzees, Dogs, Ferrets, Guinea Pigs,
Hamsters, Macaques, Mice, Rabbits, Rats, and
Capuchins. In the 1940's it was estimated over 1
million animals were used in testing. This figure
more than tripled within the next 20 years. The
figure has grown so drastically, that today it is near
impossible to even reach an estimate. World famous
Jane Goodall compares laboratory testing on animals to
concentration camps.
A small sample of companies that use the cruel
practice of animal testing are Procter and Gamble,
Lever Brothers, L'Oreal, Maybelline, Max Factor, Oil
of Olay, Pantene, and Cover Girl.
There are alternatives to animal testing and from
buying products from those who animal test. There are
methods to safely test consumer products without the
use of animals. Consumers can have a voice in the
effort to "Reduce, Replace, and Refine Animal
Research".
Simple steps such as joining a non-profit
organization which concentrates their efforts on
animal rights and animal welfare within your own
community, and not buying products from companies who
use animal testing to promote such products as mascara
or shampoo, are a wonderful way to start.
There are companies who use no animal testing,
and market good, safe products for the consumer.
There are organizations that offer wonderful
resources and consumer information for those who wish
to absorb solid facts.
Take advantage of your right to choose.
Take advantage of your right to learn.
Take advantage of your right to love the animal kingdom.
Wash your hair today knowing no one was harmed in the process.
Related links:
Written by C.K. Kirk
Mrs. Kirk spent 7 years as a State and Federal Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator in the State of Georgia.
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