Animal Defender Spring/Summer 2009 by Animal Defenders International

Anim l Spring/Summer 2009

DEFENDER I n s i d e th e m os t n o to ri o u s l a b in t h e w o r ld O n t h e t r a il o f t h e m o n k e y tr a p p e rs E x pos ed : The Vietnam dealer feeding the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s labs Campaigning in Europe for lab animals Stop Circus Suffering: Europe, South A m e ri c a an d U S A

Editorial

4am alarm. Feed the cats and the wild birds and out. Meet the team at St Pancras. Board the Eurostar, first meeting of the day. We’ll be home late. The campaign for the new European directive to replace Directive 86/609 on animal experiments has been long, and challenging – physically, mentally and financially. Especially the last three years. We have been massively outnumbered by industry lobbyists, but there are times when the fate of millions of laboratory animals hangs in the balance – this is the first major review in 23 years. Each time we secure some progress, our opponents fight to send regulation and animal protection back to the 19th century.

ANIMAL DEFENDER

ISSN: 0961-9518 published by Animal Defenders International

incorporating

THE CAMPAIGNER

ISSN: 1356-5141 published by the National Anti-Vivisection Society UK

UK: Millbank Tower, Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP, U.K. Tel: +44 (0)20 7630 3340 Fax: +44 (0)20 7828 2179 e-mail: info@ad-international.org web: www.ad-international.org

San Francisco, CA 94103, USA Tel: +1 415 543 2344 Fax: +1 415 543 2343 e-mail: usa@ad-international.org web: www.ad-international.org

This campaign has pulled together every strength of our organisation – our undercover investigations, scientific research, political lobbying, our stylish campaigning and our dedicated staff. We have made some gains, we have had setbacks, but we have always been there for the animals.

South America:

Apartado Postal 359888 BOGOTÁ, Colombia. e-mail: info@ad-international.org web: www.ad-international.org

Editors: Creamer/Phillips Design: Creamer/Phillips/Elson Cartoons: Paul Taylor Conbtributors: Jan Creamer; Tim Phillips; Helder Constantino; Alexandra Cardenas; Christina Dodkin; Jessamy Korotoga; Lisa Mitchinson; Juan Pablos Olmos.

As our weary team boarded the flight home after the Strasbourg vote our South American office was already in meetings with the Bolivian Senators and Deputies leading up to the victory in the Bolivian Senate with a circus ban (see p 25). Every hour of each day there is an ADI person somewhere in the world, standing up for animals.

ADI MISSION Founded 1990. To educate, create awareness, and promote the interest of humanity in the cause of justice, and the suppression of all forms of cruelty to animals; wherever possible, to alleviate suffering, and to conserve and protect animals and their environment.

LORD DOWDING FUND: Founded 1974; a department of the NAVS; sponsors non-animal scientific and medical research.

Where there’s a WILL, there’s a WAY to help suffering animals We need You

The National Anti-Vivisection Society works to end the suffering of laboratory animals; lobbying governments, funding investigations, technical reports, educational materials, non-animal research. Think of us in your Will. Leave a legacy to the world by making a bequest to the NAVS. The Lord Dowding Fund is the non-animal research wing of NAVS/ADI, funding medical and scientific research without the use of animals. If you want to help save animals and fund medical research, please think of us in your WILL. Animal Defenders International represents the NAVS/LDF internationally, but has a wider objective. ADI campaigns for the protection of all animals, and their environment. For animals in entertainment, sport, in laboratories or for food. We are there to fight for a permanent end to their suffering. For a free Guide to Making a Will and helping animals, call us today on 020 7630 3340. Or visit www.ad-international.org www.navs.org.uk www.ldf.org.uk

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Next year is too late. We’re in Committee, then plenary, then Council of Ministers and suddenly it’s game over. Bad luck for laboratory animals that this happened in a recession, when many groups are short of funds. However, we felt that this was an opportunity for animals that could not be lost, and therefore committed major resources, including reserves, and I hope you will support us.

USA: 953 Mission Street, Suite 200,

N AVS MISSIO N Founded 1875; the world’s premier anti-vivisection group. Millions of animals suffer and die in cruel, unscientific, and futile experiments. The NAVS advocates the total prohibition of all animal experiments, and, pending the achievement of this aim, we may support partial measures which would provide steps towards reform..

Left: First meeting of the day aboard the Eurostar en route to Brussels reviewing amendments with Campaigns Director Tim Phillips.

Europe decides fa Between January and May th e Eu r op ean Par liam en t co ns i d er ed ne w r ul es f o r la b a ni m a l s p ro p o sed b y t h e Eu r o p ea n C o m m i ssi o n. A s t h e ru l es p a ss ed t h ro ug h C o m m i t t ee s ri g ht u p t o t h e vo te i n P le n a ry , we w er e t h er e t o i nf o r m a n d t r y t o sh a p e a n i ma l p r ot ec ti on . New Directive on Animal Experiments

In November 2008, the European Commission published its long-awaited proposal for a new Directive on animal testing, replacing Directive 86/609/EEC. This instigated the latest phase of our huge campaign in the European Parliament to obtain the best possible deal for all lab animals in the EU. We cautiously welcomed the Commission’s text as an important step forward towards harmonisation to raise standards in Europe – a huge improvement over Directive 86/609/EEC.

Spring/Summer 2009

It included a requirement for prior authorisation for all animal experiments; the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement) as a cornerstone of the legislation with particular emphasis on replacement; ethical reviews; a licensing system for suppliers, establishments and individuals using animals; an upper limit of pain; uniform implementation of Council of Europe standards of housing; the extension of the scope of the Directive to some invertebrate species and foetal animals, and other measures. Although many of these proposals are to some extent already in place in the UK, it is important to bear in mind that due to great disparities in legislation between Member States, these measures would drastically improve the lives of millions of animals elsewhere in Europe, and provide incentive to reduce their use. This is an opportunity to also improve the UK legislation (see p9-13), and drag Europe into the 21st century. At times, the Commission went further than simple harmonisation by proposing innovative measures, such as limiting the use of primates to studies of life-threatening and debilitating diseases, a phase-out on the use of all wild-caught primates in NAVS & ADI

Clockwise from left: Monkey 88, known as Onion, from our HLS investigation symbolises what we are fighting for; David Martin MEP, Tim Phillips ADI Campaigns Director, Jens Holm MEP, Jan Creamer ADI Chief Executive, Carl Schlyter MEP address the European Parliament of the launch of the Save the Primates investigation; Helder Constantino ADI Head of Parliamentary Affairs is interviewed on a stand at the European Parliament; Alexandra Cardenas and Philipp Weber from the ADI team leaflet MEPs attending the plenary session.

Campaign hit list

te of lab animals testing and breeding, and the creation of national reference laboratories for alternative methods. However, there were also shortcomings. Notably, bans on the use of great apes and endangered species contained loopholes and exemptions. ECVAM (European Centre for the Validation of Alternatives Methods), an institution key to the dissemination of alternatives in Europe, was not mentioned. Little was done for improvement of animal housing and care. Provisions on data sharing fell short of what was already established by the REACH Directive. Thus, although we were pleased that the Commission’s proposals contained much that was cited in our manifesto of early 2008, and indeed from our campaign since 2002, (e.g. the 2007 primate declaration), there was room for improvement. In January 2009, we published ʻVision for Europeʼ (in six languages), summarising key demands, including: ● closure of the loopholes on primates; tougher measures to review and phase out the use of all primates in experiments, in line with our ADI & NAVS

Written Declaration 40 adopted by the European Parliament in 2007; ● an end to animal testing in higher education, for household products, forensic enquiries and the preservation of species; ● greater transparency; ● incentives to put replacement of animal tests with advanced techniques at the heart of the Directive; ● a European centre networking the development of alternatives or to expand the role of ECVAM and the proposed National Reference Laboratories; ● regular thematic review of animal experimentation. In December, we had presented the Home Office with a proposal for a formal bi-annual thematic review process to allow legislation to keep up with technology. Importantly, we wanted a formal mechanism to target specific animal experiments to ensure steady progression towards elimination of animal use. In the coming months our proposal would gain considerable momentum.

In just four months we have: ● Launched a triple investigation – experiments, trapping, suppliers – DVD and reports in 6 languages. ● Attended the European Parliament almost weekly and held hundreds of meetings. ● Took LDF scientists to Brussels to meet MEPs. ● Produced a dozen scientific and legal Technical Briefings - some in as many as 12 languages. ● Drafted and secured amendments. ● Analysed every amendment; provided comments before every vote; our comments on the 500 AGRI amendments ran to over 60 pages. ● Co-ordinated activities of several animal protection groups. ● Caught the eye with doorhangers, key rings, and special pri-mints. ● Involved supporters with leaflets and postcards. ● Met with the Home Office regularly. And more.... We have committed enormously to this campaign. After a 23-year wait for an opportunity to make changes, we have left no stone unturned and with your support, will do the same at every stage of this process. We have faced enormous, well funded, opposition from vested interests who seek to oppose any restriction. Please send a donation - whatever you can afford – and we will ensure it is used on the frontline where the battle against animal experiments is being fought.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Above, L to R:

Tim Phillips, Campaigns Director, after the plenary vote; Jessamy Korotoga, Head of Research and Evgenia Mataragaka of GAWF deal with questions on our information stand; David Martin MEP at the launch of ‘Save the Primates’. Centre: One of our doorhangers the night before the big vote.

All of the major animal welfare and protection groups in Europe got behind the comprehensive ADI proposals, and the next phase of this campaign was on. By the end of 2008 the European Parliament had appointed the MEPs responsible for the draft Directive in three Committees: Neil Parish (UK, Conservative) as main rapporteur in the Agriculture Committee, Mojca Drcar Murko (Slovenia, Liberal) as corapporteur in the Environment Committee and Esko Seppänen (Finland, Nordic Green Left) as co-rapporteur in the Industry Committee. We were particularly pleased with the appointment of Mojca Drcar Murko MEP, one of the most active sponsors of Written Declaration 40 against primate experiments, and had hoped for a positive impact by Neil Parish MEP, who also signed the Declaration and was President of the Intergroup for Animal Welfare.

Save the Primates launch

Before the Committee work started, we organised the launch of the Save the Primates campaign in Strasbourg, with the support of high-profile MEPs such as David Martin (UK, Labour), Jens Holm (Sweden, Nordic Green Left) and Carl Schlyter (Sweden, Greens). ADI’s shocking new documentary featuring undercover footage at primate supplier Nafovanny in Vietnam, wild capture in South America and experiments at Huntingdon Life Sciences in the UK revealed every aspect of the suffering of laboratory primates (see p8-15).

The Committees Right: Christina Dodkin, Science Researcher screening the Save the Primates DVD and distributing information in the Parliament.

We provided detailed proposals and suggestions for amendments to all Committee members. Mojca Drcar Murko presented a progressive report in Environment Committee that would improve the Commission’s text. However, MEPs heavily lobbied by provivisection industries contributed to derail

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Ms Murko’s report. The most shameful The Chairman of the Intergroup for attacks came from Caroline Jackson Animal Welfare decided to grant the MEP, a British Conservative who claimed wishes of those who did not want to that research would go abroad if make any effort to replace animal standards were raised in Europe, and testing. Some of his most regressive that ending primate experiments would amendments included deleting the leave patients suffering with Parkinson Commission’s proposal for an end to the and Alzheimer without cures. capture of wild-caught primates to stock lab breeding farms (see p12-15); Ms Jackson provided no evidence to astonishingly, scrapping the upper limit of substantiate her claims, but the trick pain; even removing the prior worked and a frightened Environment authorisation requirement for 95% of Committee rejected most of Ms Murko’s animal testing (mild and moderate amendments. This was helped by a low experiments). Apparently responding to attendance for the vote. Ms Murko, the industry-generated hysteria appalled that the debate on this highly that research would end and jobs important issue was replaced by blatant would be driven abroad, Mr scaremongering and hysteria from Parish decided to set EU primate trade and pharmaceutical standards far below UK lobbyists – with the help of MEPs standards. Caroline Jackson and Francoise Grossetete – eventually disowned the LDF grant holders, neuroscientist report and resigned as rapporteur. Professor Paul Furlong and education expert Professor David This was an unexpected outcome since Dewhurst joined us in Brussels the Environment Committee is usually an for one-on-one meetings with arena friendly to animal protection and MEPs, to provide the perspective positive about replacements. This defeat of scientists not using animals. undoubtedly reflected the huge amount In order to counter the of resources that the pharmaceutical misinformation and companies had invested to destroy the scaremongering sweeping the Commission’s text in a huge lobbying Parliament, ADI undertook a huge effort – there were easily ten industry lobbying effort to meet with every lobbyists to every one of ours. MEP and explain the facts. The vote in Industry Committee was also The key scare stories were that: (a) disappointing, despite the efforts of stronger regulation would overburden former Polish Prime Minister Jerzy science and industry with bureaucracy, Buzek MEP (EPP) and David resulting in work going abroad and job Hammerstein MEP (Spain, Greens) to prevent industry dismantling measures to bring in proper regulation, protect animals, and introduce advanced alternative techniques. Our education drive to counter some of the industry propaganda was therefore vital. However, the biggest disappointment came from Neil Parish MEP, who proposed a battery of pro-industry amendments to the Agriculture Committee that would, effectively, send EU legislation back © Animal Defenders International to the dark ages.

Spring/Summer 2009

NAVS & ADI

losses, even halt the search for cures and (b) any move to phase out the use of wild-caught primates would result in more killing and suffering of primates! We produced a briefing on the ʻCompetitiveness of European Science and Industryʼ, showing economic data supporting the case for strong regulation of science and industry. For example, two of the countries with the most comprehensive regulation, the UK and Switzerland, both have hugely successful pharmaceutical industries. In fact, the UK pharmaceutical industry’s trade balance has improved 360% in the 23 years since the UK legislation implementing Directive 86/609. Thus, it is clear that science and industry flourish in a strong regulatory environment with encouragement of new techniques to replace animal use. Another technical briefing ʻEnding the trapping of wild monkeys for research and breedingʼ supported the Commission’s impact assessment of their proposed seven-year phase-out of primates born of wild-caught parents. It demonstrated the conservation, environment, welfare and scientific impacts of using animals caught from the wild, and dismissed the nonsense from those with a vested interest in the primate trade. The very negative Parish report triggered strong opposition from the Alliance of the Liberals and Democrats (ALDE), and in particular Jorgo Chatzimarkakis MEP (Germany, Liberal), who argued against it in the Agriculture Committee hearings. The Greens also tabled good amendments. However, the bulk of the report was eventually adopted (although with some some good amendments), because of a consensus between the two main political groups (PES and EPP). It is disappointing that there were more industry lobbyists attending the Committee meeting than MEPs – very

ADI & NAVS

few actually cast their vote on this issue, despite the huge concerns of the public reflected by the postcards, letters and telephone calls from our supporters. The good news in the Agriculture Committee was that Neil Parish backed several commitments to improve funding and development of alternatives and also bi-annual thematic review. For example, the MEPs adopted our amendments to regularly review the use of primates (tabled by British Labour MEP Brian Simpson with Dutch MEP Lily Jacobs); biannual reviews of the use of specific species and specific tests; a review of the whole directive every five years; and new arrangements to help make a European Centre of Excellence with centres in each EU Member State, to promote, develop, and validate advanced replacement techniques. Member States were also asked to financially support the development of alternatives. Sadly, at the same time animal protection measures in the Commission’s proposal were almost universally weakened, and the mechanisms that might have actually ensured implementation of alternatives, such as prior authorisation of all experiments, were scrapped.

The full Plenary vote

We were now campaigning more intensely than ever to ensure the positive amendments we had secured, such as thematic review, did not lose support, and the most destructive amendments were not passed by Plenary. Of the latter, we had a fight to overturn the removal of prior authorisation all experiments except for primate and severe experiments; this would mean no prior ethical/scientific scrutiny and consideration of alternatives for over 95% of animal experiments across the EU. After intense discussions, an amendment requiring prior authorisation for experiments of ‘moderate’ suffering was tabled.

The most intense area of lobbying from industry had been to overturn the phase out of wild-caught monkeys in breeding centres. They have fought tooth and nail to maintain this unethical supply of cheap monkeys and to hell with the welfare cost. In the end MEPs buckled under industry pressure and the phase out has been delayed indefinitely with a “feasibility study”. A reasonable proposal from the Liberals to adopt the seven year phase out but review the deadline after three years was not supported at the final vote. We kept campaigning right to the end. It was bank holiday weekend in the UK, but most of the ADI London office kept working. For the final push, an ADI team of eight flew out to Strasbourg on Sunday – for most Strasbourg and Brussels have become second homes the past four months! We were joined by our volunteers and had speakers in English, French, Finnish, German, Greek and Portuguese. A key element of our campaign has been to aim to communicate as directly and immediately as possible, indeed a large expense of this campaign has been the high level of translation work. At the Parliament the following morning we distributed information, met with MEPs and advisors (almost 100 meetings by the end of the day). As with every Parliamentary session of the campaign, we had a new range of materials: a briefing outlining all the

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Above, L to R:

Inari Arjas from the ADI team distributing our technical briefings to MEPs; ADI Chief Executive Jan Creamer speaking at the launch of our investigation; Helder Constantino, ADI Head of Parliamentary Affairs in discussion with Mojca Drcar Murko MEP.

Minutes to go: Tim Phillips and Helder Constantino run through the final Voting List with Carl Schlyter MEP.

EU Lab Rules Campaign

amendments on primate experiments and why they should be supported or opposed; a leaflet on the amendments; and a 30-page commentary on each of the 202 amendments now before Plenary. A team of vivisectionists from a coalition of French laboratories was distributing a glossy brochure in French and English, extolling vivisection; this also reiterated the claims that research would end if MEPs regulated it, and that if dealers could not take monkeys from the wild they would trap even more! We had packed lunches so that we could work without stopping.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

The Plenary debate took place after 10pm. Neil Parish’s report was strongly challenged by Caroline Lucas MEP (UK, Greens), Jorgo Chatzimarkakis MEP and Kartika Liotard MEP. Others backed it. Environment Commissioner Dimas defended the Commission’s proposals and also, as did Neil Parish, singled out thematic review as a progressive measure – we have clearly won consensus on this proposal. At midnight, we put a door hanger on every MEP’s door calling on them to vote “yes” to science but “no” to suffering. At 1am we were back at our hotel,

Spring/Summer 2009

a short sleep, 7am breakfast meeting, and into the Parliament at 8.30am. As the MEPs went into Plenary they passed our information stand. In the early afternoon they voted. © Animal Defenders International The final outcome of the vote is a mixed bag, with some good amendments (bi-annual reviews to target specific tests and use of specific species, expansion of ECVAM and implementation of replacements). The terrible amendment allowing severe and prolonged suffering was overturned. But the Commisison proposal was badly damaged in certain areas – prior authorisation was cut from over 4 million ‘mild’ category experiments and the phase out of wild capture of primates by lab dealers was lost. The Greens and Liberals took a progressive line, the dominant PES (Socialists) and the EPP (Conservatives) supported the Parish report. Although the UK’s Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 went further than Directive © Animal Defenders International 86/609, introducing some key regulatory mechanisms, its success in improving animal welfare, implementation of alternatives, and elimination of duplication has been limited, and it has failed to reduce levels of animal use. It had been hoped that the new EU Directive would raise the bar, addressing the failings of the 1986 Act and raise standards in the UK and the rest of Europe. In the end MEPs were spooked by the blackmail from industry and voted for proposals which fall a long way short of what has been in place in the UK and several other Member States for years. We had hoped for more, but perhaps most importantly we prevented what NAVS & ADI

Below: ADI’s Helder Constantino with Ms Sirpa Pietikainen MEP (Finland, EPP) at the Save The Primates stand at Strasbourg.

might have been a complete meltdown of regulation of the science industry and protection of animals across the European Union. The Directive will now go to the Council of Ministers, where every Member State will have its say on the Commission’s proposal and on the European Parliament’s amendments. The Directive can only be adopted if both the Council and the Parliament agree on the same text. The Commission would play an important conciliatory role if the two institutions were to disagree.

EU Lab Rules Campaign

Action

Contact your UK Member of Parliament NOW, and ask them to support our key points (see the leaflet/website). ● Get your friends, colleagues, family to do the same. ● Give out our leaflets in your neighbourhood; veterinary surgeries; health food shops; clubs and pubs. Our thanks to all MEPs, assistants and advisors who have assisted us during this campaign or simply taken the time to meet and discuss these issues. We are sorry that space does not allow us to list everbody in this issue. ●

Left: ADI’s Alexandra Cardenas preparing materials for MEPs at Strasbourg. Below: Jens Holm, MEP and ADI’s Jan Creamer at the STP video Launch, Strasbourg.

Now we must focus on the Council of Ministers, under Swedish Presidency from July 2009, and convince them not to accept the most damaging amendments. We are already meeting with the UK Home Office and are gearing up Europewide campaigns. We will also be continuing discussions with and providing evidence to the Commission. We hope that, at the end of this process, the Council of Ministers will present a better text to the European Parliament for the second Reading in Plenary, which may take place later this year.

There is still everything to fight for.

ADI & NAVS

A huge thank you to all the animal protection groups and individuals who have responded to our requests to contact MEPs prior to votes and have directed them to the ADI Voting lists, commentaries and other information. Our thanks to our band of volunteer lobbyists: Andrew Butler and Sean Gifford of the excellent Lush company, Evgenia Mataragka of Greece, Inari Arjas of Finland and Philipp Weber of Germany. A special thank you to Animal Aid who produced postcards for their supporters to send to MEPs and organised publicity events for the campaign in the UK; Advocates for Animals who produced postcards for their supporters and who funded the travel of our German and Greek volunteers at the Plenary vote; to PETA Europe who sent a French representative to work with the ADI team in Brussels and sponsored our Finnish volunteer in Strasbourg.

Raise funds for animals online as you shop, as you search the web

adi.easyfundraising.org.uk

Calling all shoppers! If you shop on the internet, why not raise funds for animals for FREE! www.easyfundraising.org.uk is an internet shopping site which supports organisations like ADI. Shop at your favourite online stores, including over 600 brand name retailers, and at no extra cost to you, raise funds for ADI. By using the links from this site to shop direct with the retailer, each purchase made will generate a donation to Animal Defenders International. For example, spend £25 with WH Smith and 3.5% is donated to ADI, you will have raised £0.88, at no extra cost! Using this FREE service and raising funds for ADI is as easy as 1-2-3. 1. Register and state that you want to support ADI. 2. Login so the system recognises who you are and that you want ADI to benefit from your purchases. 3. Click on the retailer links provided, then shop just as you would normally. That's all you need to do - apart from remembering to return to the site next time you are shopping online!! Provided you login and use the retailer links supplied ‘easyfundraising’ will track all your transactions and pay ADI the appropriate donations. These will be displayed in your easyfundraising account (which you can access online). With this great incentive, there’s never been a better time to splash out and spoil yourself whilst raising money for animals. Happy Shopping!!

adi.easysearch.org.uk

If you are on the internet and want to find something quickly and easily why not use our ADI search engine as opposed to Google! Just go to http://adi.easysearch.org.uk and use it just like any other search engine. Every time you use adi.easysearch.org.uk to do a search, we get money (approximately 50p for every 100 searches). If there are any problems - go to http://www.easysearch.org.uk/ and select Animal Defenders International as your chosen ‘charity’.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Get Active for Animals There’s lots that you can do to help animals, from skydiving to writing, no matter what your age or abilities. READ ON to get active in 2009!

What happens in 2009 will shape animal use in laboratories for years to come. We need to secure new legislation that is geared towards immediately ending the worst experiments and working to replace all animal experiments. Meanwhile the research industry is fighting hard for a free for all, resisting all regulation.

Urgent Appeal

We recieve no state aid. We cannot do the investigations, briefings, research, events at the European Parliament without your help.

● Send a donation – with the recession we need your help more desperately than ever. Please urge friends, family and colleagues to make a contribution to help the campaigns. ● Sponsored Event – why not take

part in a sponsored event for animals and improve your fitness! You could take part in a skydive, walk, cycle, run or swim! Or, organise a sponsored fancy dress or “dress-down” day. Alternatively, make some vegan treats and charge people for the pleasure of eating them, become a tea and coffee genie or even invite work friends to partake in a lunchtime sponsored power walk, run or cycle. Sponsored events can also be great for raising awareness at work, at school or college, or with friends. We can even get publicity through your local newspaper. Remember to send us pictures for our website and magazine. We can send you sponsor forms.

● Arrange a sale – it’s a perfect time

for a car boot or garage sale to de-clutter the home and raise funds for animals. Get rid of the junk and put a video camera in the hands of one of our Field Officers instead. ● Recruit supporters – use our leaflets to ask people to sign up as supporters.

Get Active

We need you to be involved together we can save animals.

● Distribute leaflets, display our

posters – contact us for our Save the Primates/HLS leaflets and posters. We have great outreach materials for all our campaigns. Set up a stall to collect signatures and distribute information, hand them out at concerts and festivals.

● Get signatures for our petition – we

have a new petition for the next stage of the European lab animal campaign. We need signatures and we need them fast call or check our website for details.

● Screen our DVD – Save The Primates is a great way of opening other people’s eyes. It’s just 18 minutes long – how about a screening at your local cinema, sports club, school or college! This video is available in English, French, Italian, Polish, Spanish, and German – why not see if you can get a French lesson based around one section?

● Distribute and send our Parliamentary postcards – make sure the people representing you at the Council of Ministers represent your views on animal experiments. ● Write a letter – your MEPs and MP

need to hear from you. Find out about our Writers’ Club on page 19. ● Campaign online – put our

information on your website and post on discussion boards. Send links to our sites to friends and colleagues. Link to our website so that you can screen our videos. Spread the word on the internet.

● Write to your

local newspaper – use our leaflets to write a letter asking people to support the campaign. Ensure that you include our address so that readers can get in touch with us.

To get involved, contact our Supporter Relations team on 020 7630 3340 or by email at: info@ad-international.org

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Save The Primates: the groundbreaking investigation

As part of our drive to end primate experiments across Europe we embarked on one of our most ambitious undercover investigations ever. In two years our Special Investigations Department exposed every aspect of this sordid industry. We worked on three continents: Trailing the trappers in the South American rainforest; going into the squalid world of the Asian monkey dealers that feed Europe’s labs; and spending over a year inside possibly the biggest monkey laboratory in Europe – the primate toxicology unit in Huntingdon Life Sciences, Cambridgeshire. In the following pages you can see how, with great courage, our Field Officers lifted the lid on the lab primate business. The findings were launched at the European Parliament in February with a screening of the stunning DVD ‘Save the Primates’. We have produced the DVD in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian and Polish.

This is the world the vivisection industry does not want you to see; these are the shameful scenes the vivisection lobbyists are fighting to protect in European Parliament; and this is the reason we must keep fighting for lasting change. NAVS & ADI

Investigations

Inside the most notorious laboratory in the world

Huntingdon Life Sciences The largest single area of primate experimentation in Europe is commercial, regulatory testing. One of the largest such laboratories is Huntingdon Life Sciences (HLS) in Cambridgeshire with a capacity for around 500 macaque monkeys.

In the late 1990s HLS was brought almost to the brink of collapse by an undercover investigation that exposed cruelty and falsification of data. The Government threatened to revoke their licence to experiment. Consequently, you would expect this to be perhaps a most heavily scrutinised facility.

HLS is contracted by pharmaceutical, chemical, industrial and other companies to perform toxicology (safety testing) and other tests on their products. This is one of the most secretive areas of animal experimentation. Permits for regulatory tests are granted in ‘groups’ and so individual experiments are not scrutinised by regulators. The reports of the tests are the property of the customer and are rarely, if ever, published. HLS has capitalised on negative publicity about some of their critics, rebranding

themselves as victims. For years, any media interest in the company has focussed on “extremists” rather than what actually happens to the animals. The police assist with checks on workers and our investigator reported that staff now consider the laboratory “untouchable”. Profits have risen to £33million per year and the company wants to experiment on more animals. They plan a huge increase of monkey capacity to 700 monkeys. Time to look again at what is happening to animals inside HLS.

Between 2006 and 2008 one of our Field Officers secured a position inside the HLS Primate Toxicology Unit. Our film, photographs and observations give the most vivid and up to date insight into how these monkeys live and die behind closed doors.

Another day in the lab: A researcher walks past a monkey strapped into a restraint chair. A mask is clamped to the animal’s face, forcing it to inhale a test substance.

ADI/NAVS Chief Executive Jan Creamer is interviewed inside the European Parliament duirng the launch of the investigation.

ADI & NAVS © Animal Defenders International

How the monkeys live

All of the monkeys arriving at HLS during our investigation came from Nafovanny, a huge monkey dealer in Vietnam – see what we found there, on pages 12-13. On arrival at HLS monkeys are placed in stock colony J06, with up to fifteen animals in a room little more than two metres wide and tall by three metres long, with a small catching cage, 1 metre by 2 metres tall. There is no natural light. Although these animals are not believed to be wild-caught, their parents almost certainly were. The HLS monkeys are just one or two generations away from monkeys that lived in trees, in large troops of fifty to one hundred monkeys, and might range over 1.5 kilometres in a day – and this is still in their nature. Their HLS home provides an average of one cubic metre per animal. The monkeys are moved to Unit M12 for experimentation. Some are now confined in cages of roughly one cubic metre. Three of these cages may be linked, with three monkeys sharing the space. Their rich natural habitat now replaced by a single horizontal bar in each cage. These are the conditions provided by European and UK regulation for over twenty years, where it is acknowledged that, “Primates have high intelligence, most have arboreal habits and all need complex, stimulating environments.” The failure of these regulations to uphold standards, and the gulf between how welfare is perceived inside and outside of laboratories, is apparent from our photographs.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

It would be difficult to describe the housing at HLS as anything more than the bare minimum. This is a wealthy company, providing a service to multibillion pound/euro companies, yet these highly intelligent animals are provided with just enough to sustain them before they suffer in tests for products. A monkey was discovered with blood on its face and the ends of the animal’s toes were missing. Some staff suggested that the monkey had chewed off its own toes, however our investigator noted that the wounds were clean straight cuts, and concluded that the animal was more likely to have trapped its foot in some part of the cage, sliced its toes off trying to free itself and then put its foot in its mouth. Missing digits were not considered to be an uncommon occurrence. Monkeys had a range of cuts and injuries from the cages, with several requiring veterinary attention. Scrapes and scratches from being removed from cages; a chain being used to secure a cage pierced the cheek of a female, leaving her unable to eat and having to be force fed each day. Others suffered diarrhoea, nose bleeds, or ate and then vomited their own excrement.

The experiments

Tests we observed used anything from 4 to 72 monkeys and all involved the physical restraint of the monkeys, which clearly caused them distress. It takes three people to dose a small monkey by mouth. The ‘catcher’ pins the animal’s arms, the ‘legger’ takes the

Spring/Summer 2009

Scenes that would be distressing in an impoverished third world zoo. Yet this is a multi million pound company

legs, and another feeds a rubber tube down the throat to the animal’s stomach and pumps in the test substance. In other tests the monkeys are strapped down in chairs. It is hard to imagine the terror of these monkeys, torn from their cages and then pinned in these chairs, their arms and legs locked in place by velcro straps. For some the stress is so great that they suffer rectal prolapse, which is a known indicator of stress in restrained primates. During the study of an incontinence drug, three of the monkeys being restrained suffered rectal prolapses, and one being used to test another drug suffered repeated prolapses. During an oral dosing study, several monkeys suffered from vomiting and salivation on numerous occasions. Several produced black-stained urine on their cage floor. One almost chewed off its whole finger and continued to chew its hand after the vet had dressed it. Others showed a range of symptoms such as tugging at chest skin, pushing their fists into their mouths, trying to bite through the metal food hopper, pushing large amounts of sawdust into cheek pouches, chewing metal and dragging teeth along the bars of the cage. Five days later, some showed signs of twitchy feet, indicating a kind of pins and needles sensation. Several animals were clearly distressed, yet they were orally dosed as normal and returned to their cages. At around the same time, a study of the same product was started in rats and researchers had noticed the rats NAVS & ADI

chewing their feet and eating sawdust. Almost chewing off a finger is a substantial clinical sign, so as a result the dose for one group was lowered. An inhalation study provided another example of how the severity of a procedure can be misjudged: Over a period of time three monkeys on an inhalation study died or had to be killed due to partially collapsed and blocked lungs. Three other animals also collapsed but were revived. After death, it was found that these animals had blackened lungs. Clearly they would have suffered a great deal. Documents leaked from another contract testing laboratory, Inveresk in Scotland (ADI/NAVS report, 2005), show that during tests for an asthma drug, monkeys suffered with liquid faeces; redness of face, lips, feet and hands; swollen penises and scrota; a loss of body tone; low heart rate; hernias; they had body tremors and a quiet, hunched appearance. An additional fear and stress for laboratory monkeys is that they have the ability to anticipate what is going to happen to them. In the wild, these monkeys are intelligent, they innovate, learn from each other and pass on skills such as cleaning food or fishing. Yet at HLS caged monkeys were able to see other monkeys being strapped down and experimented upon. Stress and anticipation are known to distort results and affect the outcomes of experiments, yet for some monkeys the tests continue for weeks, months, even a ADI & NAVS

year. They will learn that every day for the rest of their lives, they will be subjected to some kind of distressing procedure. Some monkeys had an incontinence drug pumped into their stomachs every day for a year. Others were bled multiple times in a day, or day after day – enduring over eighty bleeds. On the days when the animals were killed at the end of the experiment, the other monkeys would fall silent. The normal shrieking, chatter and rattle of the cages fell to an eery silence. The magnitude of the monkeys’ awareness of the nightmare they face could not be clearer.

The restrained monkeys became so distressed that they prolapsed.

A monkey is experimented on in front of others. Since we released this footage MEPs have ensured the distress caused to animals witnessing other tests is included in the new regulations.

drug absorption and distribution – significantly more accurate than primate, dog and rodent tests.

Primates and dogs come at the end of the standard series of regulatory tests. By the time the monkeys are strapped into restraint chairs at HLS, hundreds even thousands, of rodents have already died to test the same product.

It is vital that we secure our proposal for bi-annual thematic reviews of primate tests which has been adopted by the European Parliament – see pages 2-6. This will enable the review of these brutal tests and implementation of replacements.

The alternatives

Shamefully, industry lobbyists presented a very different picture as they pressed MEPs to cut the European Commission’s proposals to control animal experiments. Yet, animal experiments are a poor predictor of human response. Remember the horrific side effects in the human trial of test drug TGN1412 – despite that doses were 500 times lower than for lab monkeys. Many agree that this disaster could have been avoided by microdosing. This involves giving tiny, safe, doses of new compounds to human volunteers with samples of blood or urine analysed by Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS). AMS can show how compounds have been absorbed, distributed, metabolised and excreted by the human body. An EU microdosing study recently showed it to be 80% predictive of human

Watch it ‘Save the Primates’ DVD. Available in English, French, Italian, German, Polish and Spanish. Read the report Inside HLS and Nafovanny. Sent to all MEPs and MPs. Briefing Brochure in English, French, Italian, German, Polish and Spanish on the key investigation findings. Campaign Materials New leaflet and posters – order now.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Investigations

In the year up to June 2008, at least 476 monkeys were supplied to HLS by Nafovanny in Vietnam.

In November 2008, a team of ADI Field Officers went to Vietnam to investigate the facility and its offices in Hong Kong. We put to the test claims by HLS that the animals they receive are bred in the “best conditions” and what the Home Office describe as “acceptable welfare standards.”

We found factory farm conditions, dilapidated rusting cages, and breeding stocks snatched from the wild. This is the shameful reality of where European laboratory monkeys come from.

Inside Nafovanny The squalid reality of European laboratory primate supply Nafovanny was formed to export macaque monkeys for experiments, as a joint venture between the Vanny Group of Hong Kong and Naforibird Company of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. The monkeys originate from two large facilities in Long Thanh, Vietnam a few miles outside Ho Chi Minh city. The two monkey farms are like fortresses with towering walls topped with barbed wire and the main gates have a constant security presence. Vistors are not welcome. Yet, once through the main gates, the facilities appear almost welcoming, with neat whitewashed buildings housing the offices. But things start to deteriorate sharply once you get to where the monkeys are forced to live. Most monkeys are group housed in small pens made from chain link fencing. These are about 2 or 3 metres square, with a concrete floor and virtually nothing to interest the monkeys, who rush up to and hang on the cage front whenever anyone approaches.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

However, venturing deeper into the complex, things are even worse. In one section we found adult monkeys living in isolation in small rusting cages. These were under one metre high, little taller than the monkey itself when standing upright, and less than a metre wide. The bare cages had solid metal back and sides with metal mesh tops, they were raised off the ground, on short legs. Several cages were in a state of collapse – leaning at extreme angles, forwards, backwards or to one side – with monkeys living inside them. Several hundred monkeys were in these cages, spanning the rear of the main site in Long Thanh. Yet this site was inspected by the UK Home Office in early 2008. Furthermore, Brian Cass, Managing Director of HLS claimed in February 2009: “[We]… spend a lot of time and a lot of money in trying to ensure the best conditions for our primates. Whether thatʼs the best conditions where they are bred, in their transport and indeed the way they are housed in our laboratory.”

Spring/Summer 2009

These are some of the worst conditions we have ever seen. Are the Home Office and HLS welfare standards really this low? Or did they simply think no one would check? Most of the breeding monkeys we saw at Nafovanny (and indeed in almost all the Asian monkey dealers supplying European labs) are snatched from the wild. They once roamed free only to be torn from the trees and forced to live for years in these dismal prisons. Their offspring are known as F1 – first generation monkeys born of wild-caught parents. When the dealers need more monkeys they can get them free from the forests. They want more females than males for their factory farms, so are likely to cause great suffering and environmental damage to the wild populations that they are violently destabilising. Whether the trappers are catching and killing or releasing unwanted males, the balance of the wild population will be severely damaged. NAVS & ADI

national © Animal Defenders Inter

Above: How we broke the story in the Sunday People

From Vietnam to the UK

We monitored eight deliveries of 60 monkeys at a time from Nafovanny to HLS via the shadowy supply company Belgrave Services - which operates from unit J06 at HLS. Typically, the monkeys travel by road from Nafovanny to Ho Chi Minh City, they are then flown to France where a freight company forwards them by road to HLS in Cambridgeshire. Personnel at HLS understood the journey to take about 30 hours. This is typical of

ADI & NAVS

monkey arrived with bruising and a swollen orbital; a monkey in the stock building had skin looking sore and flaking off badly, requiring its feet and tail to be bathed in Malaseb for ten minutes every other day; it was claimed the animal had arrived in that condition.

Home Office Approved

The Nafovanny facility in which we filmed is approved by the UK Home Office as an official laboratory monkey supplier. In 2005 the Home Office stated “before primates can be acquired from an overseas breeding centre it is necessary for the Home Office to have appraised and accepted the use of that centre in order to ensure compliance with the section of the Home Office Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Animals in designated Breeding and Supplying Establishments (1995 HC 125) pertaining to the import of primates”, and: “In effect we will only allow the use of animals from overseas centres we believe produce purpose-bred animals to acceptable welfare standards”. In March 2005 an inspection of the Nafovanny facility in Long Thanh

identified, “shortcomings in animal accommodation and care” and the centre was notified that its “status as an approved centre would cease” once all existing orders for primates had been filled. Tough words to reassure MPs and the public. By the end of 2005 however, the Home Office had received “reassurances and evidence that significant improvements had been made”, and concluded that Nafovanny could meet the required standard. Permission was given for them to continue to supply to the UK. The evidence upon which this decision was based, was “unedited video footage, photographs and reports”. But the Home Office didn’t check and in 2007, it was confirmed that the site had not been visited since the March 2005 inspection. In March this year, we met with Home Office officials and handed in formal complaints concerning Nafovanny and Huntingdon Life Sciences. We learned that Home Office inspectors had in fact visited Nafovanny just months before our team and saw no problems. Officials have undertaken to look at our evidence and may visit Nafovanny later this year. They may also take action if a UK lab orders more monkeys from Nafovanny. It is nothing short of disgraceful if the conditions we observed are “acceptable welfare standards” to the Home Office (HO). However a curious twist is that the HO maintain that the monkeys approved for the UK are kept in facilities similar to UK standards (we did not see any of these ‘lucky’ monkeys on our visit). So effectively, provided monkeys coming into the UK are in acceptable cages the HO will ignore the deplorable conditions of all of the others. Not exactly the high standards the public is led to believe are maintained by the UK. We are calling for the UK supplier licence for Nafovanny to be withdrawn.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Left: Nafovanny, Vietnam.

Below: A monkey just arrived at Huntingdon Life Sciences from Nafovanny.

The European Commission has proposed that the use of F1 primates be phased out over seven years. Dealers like Nafovanny would have to steadily replace breeding stock with captive bred rather than wild animals. Disgracefully, the drug industry and animal laboratory lobbyists persuaded MEPs to delay these proposals indefinitely. The result is cheap monkeys for Europe at a massive welfare and conservation cost. You can be sure that in the coming months, we will be fighting for the Commission’s proposals to be supported by the UK at the Council of Ministers.

the journey endured by almost all the thousands of macaque monkeys being imported into Europe for experimentation. It is known that cynomolgus macaques react badly to transport. Monkeys arrived at HLS after midnight, in individual compartments in rectangular wooden crates with a handle at each end. These compartments did not allow the animals to stand upright. On arrival most monkeys were frightened and cowered at the back of the box, they were unloaded and released into gang cages in the J06 stock building. Injuries and illness related to the journey included: high temperature and weight loss; abrasions to heads and faces; the study notes for BVR0963 noted that one

national © Animal Defenders Inter

Governments, regulators and laboratories like to give the impression that they avoid use of wild caught monkeys, but it appears that they have been happy to turn a blind eye to how the suppliers obtain their breeding stock to produce the F1 babies, the conditions in which they keep their primates, and the damage to wild populations. By using F1 primates Europe’s labs are supporting wild capture – they just let the dealers do the dirty work.

Investigations

To expose the capture of wild monkeys for experiments, our Field Officers infiltrated a South American gang of trappers. We caught on film owl monkeys being torn from the trees and followed them to a laboratory in Colombia where they were used in malaria experiments. Our footage has been screened in the European Parliament and Colombian Congress. Yet, in April MEPs voted to cut European Commission proposals to end the capture of monkeys by lab dealers. Although these particular monkeys were not destined for Europe, this is the type of wild capture that Europe sanctions.

It can be a lonely and risky business for our Field Officers as they gather the evidence so vital for our campaigns. Sitting in a canoe, in pitch darkness, quietly slipping up the Amazon in the dead of night with a group of monkey trappers is probably as isolated as it gets.

The trappers are local people. Typically, they are poor and not recruited for their welfare, environmental or conservation knowledge. They qualify by being able to find and catch monkeys, cheap. The trappers go where they can get access to monkeys – there is no evidence that they consider sustainability or the stability and health of the wild populations as apologists might claim. The trappers are in search of owl monkeys which are nocturnal. Our Field Officer switches on the nightvision camera. The trapper in front of them has a huge machette to hack through the undergrowth and is tapping the trees to force the little monkeys to stir. There have been a number of reports of considerable damage to the forest with trees being chopped down to get to families of owl monkeys. Later, we filmed the monkeys being captured. The trapper scaled a tree and placed a net over the hollowed trunk where the owl monkeys were sleeping, leaving no escape. The monkeys are then grasped and carried to the ground. The terror is evident in their faces as they are pushed, screaming, into sacks.

From here they are taken to a dock, put in holding crates and taken up river to the Colombian Immunology Foundation laboratory (FIDIC) in Leticia run by Manual Elkin Patarroyo. Readers will be familiar with our campaign in Colombia to end these cruel experiments. Inside the laboratory, the monkeys’ forest is replaced by the barren factory-type cages. Some are isolated, which is torture for a monkey. We also filmed the poor monkeys being experimented on. The IUCN has announced that 48% of all primate species are either endangered, or critically endangered. As governments in the home range states of

Investigations

On the trail of the monkey

Help end Colombia’s Malaria Exper

Following our launch of the Save the Primates DVD i the video was screened in the Colombian Congress, Olmos (above and inset) gave a special presentation the malaria experiments taking place in Colombia. We urgently need funds to develop this campaign

The Animal Defender & Campaigner Spring/Summer 2009

NAVS & ADI

y trappers

riments on Monkeys

in the European Parliament, the Spanish version of Bogota. ADI Suramérica representative Juan Pablo n highlighting the ADI investigation of trapping and

n, please send a donation to help. ADI & NAVS

Would YOU like to be in with a chance to WIN £100,000 every Friday?

Title ..................... Initial ............... Surname ................................................................

Address ........................................................................................................................

This scheme is similar to the National Lottery, but it benefits ADI! The ʻLightning Lotteryʼ, gives YOU a chance to win £100,000 every Friday! At no cost to us, this is a great way to help animals while getting a chance to make bundles of cash! HOW DOES IT WORK? Choose six numbers from 0 to 9 and enter them in the table opposite. Fill in the form and send to The Weather Lottery, Derby House, Retford Road, Mattersey, Doncaster, DN10 5HJ. If your numbers match the last digit of the daily Fahrenheit temperatures (in the right place) of Corfu, Istanbul, Tenerife, Innsbruck, Edinburgh and Stockholm, you win the top prize of…£100,000! You can pay by standing order, cheque or credit/debit card. Please make cheques payable to: Prize Provision Services Ltd. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Each entry line (i.e. each set of 6 numbers) costs £2 per week. There is a draw every Friday. HOW DO I KNOW IF I'VE WON? You can check your numbers in the Daily Mail or at www.theweatherlottery.com although all prizes are guaranteed and sent out automatically, anyway.

......................................................................................................................................

............................................................................. Postcode .........................................

Tel ................................................................................................................................ email ..........................................................................................................................

Signature ...................................................................................................................... Location

Corfu

Example Entry 1

Istanbul

Tenerife

Innsbruck

Edinburgh

Stockholm

Entry 2 Entry 3

Banking Standing Order

....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

To the Manager of ................................................................................................ Bank

Branch address ............................................................................................................ ......................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................. Postcode .................................... Please pay Prize Provision Services

Account number 22438844, Sort code 40-27-15

The amount of ■ £4.34

■

£8.68

■

£13.02 per calendar month.

Starting from .................... / .................... / ....................

My account name ......................................................................................................... Account number

■■■■ ■■■■

Sort code ____ ____ - ____ ____ - ____ ____

And thereafter quoting my reference number: for office use only

Signature ......................................................................................................................

Print name .................................................................................................................... Or pay by credit / debit card

Card type ....................................................................... Security code

■■■ ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■ Card number Expiry date

■ ■ ■■

Please debit my account the amount of

Issue number

■■

■ £13 ■ £26 ■ £39 every quarter.

On receipt of this confirmation & thereafter every quarter (13 weeks) until further notice.

Signature ......................................................................................................................

Print name .................................................................................................................... Return the form to: The Weather Lottery, Derby House, Retford Road, Mattersey, Doncaster, DN10 5HJ.

✂

primates make desperate efforts to prevent the poor and hungry eating some species to oblivion, the western research community demands the right to take them for unreliable experiments, when alternatives are available. An estimated 10% of primates in EU labs still come from the wild and the EU is utterly complicit in the capture of wild monkeys by dealers. It is imperative that the European Commission’s proposal to end the wild capture of primates for research and breeding programmes are supported by the UK Government at the Council of Ministers.

Help Animals and WIN £100,000!!

Campaign News Reports link recent swine flu outbreak to intensive pig and poultry farming. La Gloria, the

Help us Kick animal testing out of the house EU Ban on testing cosmetics ingredients on animals comes into force but some tests linger on.....

Mexican village at the epicentre of the swine flu virus, is situated 12 miles from an intensive pig unit owned by the world’s biggest pork producer, US giant, Smithfield. Bearing in mind that the recent strain is a combination of bird, human and pig flu strains, there are also several large intensive poultry farms in the region around La Gloria.

http://www.sundayherald.com/oped/opinion/display.var.2505670.0.intensive_far ming_breeds_more_than_cheap_food.php

SPECIAL OFFER

We are so close to following our successful cosmetics testing ban with a household product ban, but we urgently need your help. Not a single animal was used in the UK in 2006 for testing household products, while 21 died in 2005. However, the latest Home Office statistics reveal that one rabbit was killed in a futile household product experiment in 2007. An absurd death that could and should have been avoided. It is imperative that the UK and the EU, where more of these tests continue, end these tests. Our ‘Kick Animal Testing Out of the House’ campaign is pressing the UK Government and the European Parliament for action. Call 020 7630 3340 for an action pack. Progress on the cosmetics campaign shows that we can win. We secured the UK cosmetics testing ban in 1998, and testing finished cosmetics products on animals has been prohibited in the EU since 2004. On March 11th 2009, the EU ban on testing cosmetics ingredients was the latest development in the implementation of the 7th Amendment of the Cosmetics Directive. Tests for repeateddose toxicity, reproductive toxicity and toxicokinetics will continue to be allowed until March 2013. L’Oreal stated during the latest meeting of the European Partnership for Alternative Approaches (EPAA) in 2008 that there was a need “to assure pragmatic approaches suitable for industry” when it comes to animal testing. The cosmetic giant appears determined to delay or postpone the implementation of the 7th Amendment. While the European Commission has always confirmed its intention to stick to the deadline, we will remain vigilant. According to the latest EU statistics, there was “a noticeable increase in the number of animals used for cosmetics or toiletries (50%)” in 2006, 5,571 animals were killed – mainly in France. The largest cosmetic company in the world announced €17.5 billion of consolidated sales in 2008. We certainly don’t think they’re worth it!

The Heart Hospital in London have created a virtual heart.

A virtual model has been created by animators and allows the organ to be rotated and viewed inside and out. It can be set to beat normally or mirror the effects of various conditions. It can be used as a teaching aid for students to explore the heart’s anatomy in a way not possible in real patients. http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn17047-virtual-heart-pumps-up-the-

realism.html

Huge bushmeat seizure in Cameroon involving soldiers, police and game rangers. The

week-long anti poaching operation, uncovered over 1,000kg of bushmeat and more than 30 guns. The remains included protected species such as gorillas, chimpanzees and elephants.

http://www.panda.org/wwf_news/?163722/Major-Cameroon-raid-nets-keypoachers-weapons-and-huge-bushmeat-haul

Link between red meat diet and reduced mortality. 545,000 volunteers were asked about their diet and monitored for the next 10 years, revealed that eating large amounts of red meat shortened peoples lives. This could be the biggest study on the relationship between diet and mortality.

KICK ANIMAL TESTING OUT OF THE HOUSE This spring we are delighted to announce that we have teamed up with the Nottingham based beauty product company, ‘Naked’ so you can continue to kick animal testing out of the house! Naked have revamped their range with a look that is better than ever to bring you products with pure and natural active extracts. Naked contains no animal derived ingredients so is suitable for vegetarians. They also don’t believe in testing on Bambi, Lassie or Skippy or any other animal – not any of their ingredients, nor the final product. For your chance to indulge in these heavenly products simply answer this: Name the monkey rescued after being found in a bag in a street in Bogotá Send your answer, including full contact details (name, address, telephone number and email) to NAVS, Millbank Tower, Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP. Or email: info@navs.org.uk Entry deadline is 31st July 2009.

‘Naked’ have many UK outlets, check out their website, www.nakedbodycare.co.uk or call 0115 958 3342 for more information.

Campaign News

Ambassador Kodak sends a message to the Prime Minister International Primate Day, 1st September 2008, saw us highlighting the primate pet trade, with ADI and the Monkey Sanctuary Trust joining forces to deliver a strong message to Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Kodak, the capuchin monkey we helped © Animal Defenders International rescue from the pet trade, had just embarked on his new life at the Monkey Sanctuary and so was appointed the ‘Primate Ambasador’ and sent his own special message to the Prime Minister. ADI’s Chief Executive, Jan Creamer, and Rachel Hevesi from the Monkey Sanctuary delivered the message to 10 Downing Street on a huge card from Kodak. A new Parliamentary Briefing was delievered to all MPs highlighting the suffering caused by the trade and the failure of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to address the issue. Primates need the company of their own kind and suffer terribly, both mentally and physically when kept isolated or in inappropriate conditions; they should not be kept as pets. Some species live for up to 45 years resulting in many animals being re-homed several times during their lifetime. The primate pet trade helps perpetuate illegal trafficking in many countries. There are also risks of disease for owners and pets – the primates often have little or no resistance to human diseases. Kodak was snatched from the wild as a baby in South America, sold to a dealer, and eventually sold as a pet in Greece. ADI facilitated Kodak’s move to the Monkey Sanctuary when his owner realised he could not cope with such a demanding animal.

Thank You! MEPs vote to protect seals

In April, MEPs voted overwhelmingly to ban the trade in seal products in the EU, ending Europe’s support for the Canadian slaughter of around 300,000 seals a year. Canada is threatening to take the EU to the World Trade Organisation1. The horrific, violent slaughter would seem indefensible, but it had some defenders. Some even claimed it could be essential for ‘medical research’. Is there nothing so repugnant that it cannot be justified by this sweeping claim? One MEP argued: “Great progress has been made in the survival and quality of life of cardiac patients by using aortic, pulmonary and pericardial © Free Clip Art Now tissue of harp seals” 2. However the surgeon involved in this project, a Dr Agathos, has conceded that the research is still at an early stage – no licence for clinical studies has yet been applied for3. The renowned Mayo clinic cautions, “These [biological] valves are not as durable as mechanical valves…and they may need to be replaced. Biological valves are used most often in elderly patients” 4. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons comments, “all are less durable than mechanical valves. Given enough time, they will probably all wear out” 4. Agathos has another insight, “I know very well the sealersʼ professionalism and their respect for the mammals they hunt” 3. That is not evident to most, either. 1. http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/may/05/eu-bans-seal-products 2. http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/may2009/2009-05-05-01.asp 3. http://www.sealsonline.org/_files/lttr_Agathos_CzechEnvMin_23Mar09.pdf 4. http://www.mayoclinic.org/heart-valve-surgery/treatment.html

ADI & NAVS

Nearly half of all primates threatened with extinction

The IUCN have reported that 48% of all primates are threatened with extinction, probably in our own lifetime. All the great apes – gorillas, chimps, orangutans and bonobos, are classified as either endangered or critically endangered.

or/ADI © G. MacGreg

Thai officials are using DNA tests to help apes return to their place of origin, by determining whether confiscated orangutans are native to Indonesia’s Sumatra Island or to Borneo.

New DNA tests to identify apes

A positive step for shark conservation is underway with Taipei, Taiwan's most exclusive restaurant agreeing to remove shark's fin from its banquet menus. Whilst campaigners agree this is a step in the right direction, they are demanding the restaurant remove shark's fin altogether.

Shark fin restaurant

The World Lab Animal Day march took place in London on April 25th. Our team was heavily committed to ational fenders Intern © Animal De the European campaign but held an NAVS information stand and distributed leaflets. A special World Lab Animal Day poster was also distributed across the country.

2,000 join march

Campaigners appealed to the Nepalese Supreme Court to halt the export of rhesus macaques to US laboratories. They say the mortality rate at the Lele breeding centre is around 20%.

Nepal macaque exports

In April, two lionesses escaped from a circus in Colombia during the night. The lionesses killed a dog, destroyed a motorcycle, and then climbed onto a roof that collapsed with the lioness falling into an occupied house. It took the police over three hours to capture the lionesses, which were confiscated. The circus had no CITES documentation, nor any paperwork with them. ADI wrote immediately to the Colombian Minister of Environment and offered to relocate the lionesses.

Lionesses escape

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Campaign News Chimps have “whole body” map in mind

Chimpanzees can tell other chimps apart by looking at photos of their bottoms. Evidence suggests that chimps have a “whole body” mental representation in their minds, enabling them to assign different body parts to the same chimpanzee. http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg19926754.400-chimps-never-forget-a-

bum.html

In 1996, during a meningitis epidemic in which people died, drug giant Pfizer set up a trial. This was metres away from a medical station dispensing proven treatments in the Nigerian slum, Kano. Calling this a “humanitarian mission” they picked 200 sick children. Half were given the experimental Pfizer drug, Trovan, the others a proven antibiotic from a rival company. Eleven of the children died; others suffered side-effects such as organ failure and brain damage. A letter produced by Pfizer, purporting to show permission for the trials from a Kano ethics committee, turned out to be backdated. The committee had been set up a year after the original trials. Nine years since the start of the case, Pfizer agreed a £50m settlement. The drug, hoped to be a pharmaceutical “blockbuster”, has since been banned in the EU and withdrawn in the US.

Children die in Pfizer drug trial

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/pfizer-to-pay-16350m-afterdeaths-of-nigerian-children-in-drug-trial-experiment-1663402.html

Travis, a 15 year old chimpanzee, was killed by police in Connecticut after he attacked a visitor to his owner. In an effort to stop the attack the owner stabbed Travis several times before police intervened. No explanation was given for the attack but Travis was on medication for Lyme disease. Travis had been used in the entertainment industry in TV shows and commercials for Coca-Cola and Old Navy.

Pet chimp shot and killed

Cloned beagles which glow red under UV light have been born. Egg cells, genetically modified to express the florescent gene, were implanted into surrogate mothers, resulting in seven pregnancies – only five of these offspring have so far survived.

GM beagles to glow red

http://www.newscientist.com/commenting/browse;jsessionid=EFFE06EA3341C C8E0F2B2A4E102F8205?id=dn17003&page=2

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Monkeys saved from Israeli horror tests

In our last magazine, we reported how we have been assisting with evidence for the legal action which followed an undercover investigation that exposed macaque monkey experiments at the Wiezmann Institute, Israel. The monkeys suffered © Let Animals Live holes cut in their skulls and plastic placed over their brains in order to monitor their brain activity. These appalling experiments involved the primates being restrained for up to 9 hours a day and deprived of water as an incentive to complete the tasks required. We are thrilled to report that four monkeys have now been released and will live out the rest of their lives free from suffering. It is hoped that the freedom of three more will be secured. Critically, in order to stop other animals suffering such a fate, the legal challenge regarding the experiments is still before Israeli lawyers.

Expert evidence for German lab monkey case

Authorities in Bremen initially stopped brain experiments on macaque monkeys at Bremen University for being “ethically unjustified” because “they address longterm scientific questions rather than help © Animal Defenders International develop specific medical therapies1.” City authorities intended to carry through a non-binding resolution declaring a phase out of primate experiments, and rejected the application by researcher Professor Kreiter, to extend his project licence in November 2008. His university vowed to fight the decision in court2. The experiments involve recording single neurone activity in monkeys’ brains while they perform tasks3. Kreiter’s previous work has involved implanting electrodes in monkeys’ brains and gold rings into their eyes, to measure their gaze4. Kreiter and his team also conducted visual attention research in humans to try and confirm the findings in monkeys!5 Researchers claim that such experiments are ‘necessary’ because they are not possible in animals with less developed brains or with noninvasive brain-imaging methods. LDF grant holder Professor Furlong of Aston University, has been able to provide expert commentary on the feasibility of using detailed brain images of human volunteers and patients instead of cruel monkey experiments. In one study, Prof. Furlong and his team compared their data from measuring human electrical brain activity, with data obtained by experimenters using electrodes in restrained monkeys. The same level of data could be obtained. Clearly the human data is also directly relevant to patients6. Although Aston’s neuroimaging centre does not work at the single neurone level, it examines neuronal clusters or small networks thus enabling the same conclusion to be reached regarding cognitive function. This also avoids the problem of implanting an electrode in an animal and hoping it hits the right spot. Since this level of human behavioural study and neuro-imaging is possible, it would be hoped that Bremen University would switch to humane methods instead of invasive research in animals. Sadly, like the animal experimenters across Europe fighting to prevent the phase out of primate tests, the Bremen researchers are unwilling to give up their monkey experiments. In December 2008 Kreiter received a temporary order to extend his licence, so his research continues2. The case is expected to be heard in 2009.

1) http://www.nature.com/news/2008/081027/full/4551159a.html. 2) http://blogs.sciencemag.org/scienceinsider/2008/12/german-scientis.html 3) http://www.nature.com/news/2008/081027/full/4551159a.html 4) Taylor, K et al (2005) Coherent Oscillatory Activity in Monkey Area V4 Predicts Successful Allocation of Attention. Cerebral Cortex, Vol.15, pp.1424 -1437 5) Wegener, D et al (2006) Selective visual attention ensures constancy of sensory representations: Testing the influence of perceptual load and spatial competition. Vision Research Vol. 46, pp. 3563-3574 6) Hall, S D et al 2005. The missing link: analogous human and primate cortical gamma oscillations. Neuroimage. 26 (1):13-17

Spring/Summer 2009

NAVS & ADI

Picture: Monkey undergoing procedure in an horrific experiment filmed at the Weizmann Institute.

Picture: The same level of data can be obtained from modern systems, such as MEG scanners, as from experiments on monkeys.

Campaign News

Award for outstanding elephant sanctuary

Join our Writers’ Club

We have presented the Lord Houghton Award for services to Animal Welfare to Pat Derby and Ed Stewart for their remarkable work to protect performing animals and the outstanding standard of care set by their © Animal Defenders International Ark 2000 sanctuary in California, Main Picture: A huge elephant enclosure at the ARK 2000 Sanctuary. where rescued elephants and tigers are provided with love and Inset: Pat Derby and Ed Stewart with their award, with ADI’s Lisa Mitchinson and Corey Evans. protection. Responsibility to make the Lord Houghton Award is rotated between four of the UK’s oldest animal protection groups. Each organisation gets to nominate a recipient every four years, making this perhaps the most prestigious UK animal protection award. Pat and Ed have been pioneers in the work to end the abuse of animals in circuses, taking up this issue and raising awareness long before others. They marry caring for rescued animals with a genuine drive for lasting change, to expose the suffering and to ensure that one day, the scenes of elephants in chains being beaten with bullhooks in travelling circuses are no more. ADI and PAWS have been kindred spirits in this campaign. A decade ago we staged our first joint press conference with PAWS at their sanctuary in Galt to highlight the abuse of circus animals. Afterwards, Ed looked at the elephant enclosure and remarked something along the lines that “We do what we can, but it is still an enclosure with bars.” The sentiment was reflective of a burning desire to do more for animals, especially those The tragic Sujey in their care. A decade later and one can see the fruits Sujey was a female of that drive, in the wonderful ARK 2000 sanctuary for elephant touring elephants. Colombia with Circo de Pat and Ed’s work caring for rescued animals and in Mexico. A local particular elephants is innovative, exciting and above all organisation ADAN noted else puts the animals’ welfare and happiness first and that Sujey was foremost. stereotypic and looked ill. The Environmental Police We believe that Pat and Ed have reached for the stars inspected and Sujey was in their work, creating a gold standard of care for their temporarily seized, albeit elephants. Whereas they might have considered remaining with the circus. resting on their laurels, they have gone on to raise the ADI made a written bar even higher. A contented elephant at submission and offered to They are an inspiration the PAWS ARK 2000 relocate her to the PAWS Sanctuary. for those who ARK 2000 sanctuary in campaign for animals California. Tragically, and those who care for Sujey has died, before animals. the inquiry could be Well done, Pat and Ed. completed. ADI & NAVS © Animal Defenders International

Timing is often vital and there are moments when a letter from you can make a huge difference – to an MP or MEP just before a vote, to a TV network after a programme, to the Advertising Standards Authority to stop a cruel advert being aired, to your local Council as they decide on a circus ban. Our Writers’ Club helps us work with supporters who are likely to send a letter when asked. We supply a draft you can adapt, which can be hardcopy or in electronic form. It can be very expensive to alert every supporter when we need action and time is often short, especially when legislation is being amended. Writers’ Club means your letters can be more effective, because we update you with the latest information. If you join our Writers’ Club we will be in touch whenever animals need you to raise a pen for them – please contact us today by post, or call 020 7630 3340. Conservationists have located significant numbers of two endangered primate species in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, in the province of Quang Binh, Central Vietnam. A wildlife survey identified roughly 30 families of southern whitecheeked gibbons and a number of red-shanked Douc langurs. Both species are considered endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. A programme to train local residents to monitor wildlife and report illegal poaching is being hailed a success.

Rare apes found in Vietnam

ADI’s Alexandra Cardenas and Helder Constantino appeared as extras in the film on the life of Jean Charles de Menezes, a Brazilian national who was shot dead in Stockwell tube station by the Metropolitan Police in 2005. A NAVS stand was set up for a scene of the film. The film stars Brazilian actor Selton Mello (pictured), and will open on June 26 in Brazil.

NAVS Extras

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Rescue News

Caring for our big cats is a full time job and staff remain vigilant. One routine visit to the lions revealed that Caesar had an injury just behind his left shoulder – most likely caused by his playful companion Sarah. Although he did not appear distressed, it was decided to take no chances and to anaesthetise the huge © Animal Defenders International lion and treat the wound. Caesar and Sarah were separated, and with the first shot, the vet darted Caesar in the thigh. As he succumbed to the tranquilliser, Sarah came to the fence to be with him – the pair have had a special bond since we rescued them together from a circus in Portugal. The wound was infected, but was quickly cleaned and treated. In no time after the anaesthetic antidote, Caesar was back on his feet, with the only sign that anything had happened being the blue anti fly cream on his coat. He was soon back at play with Sarah.

Kodak gets a friend

Kodak the capuchin monkey, who ADI supporters helped save from the pet trade, is adapting well to his wonderful new life at the Monkey Sanctuary Trust (MST), in Cornwall. Most importantly, after years alone, he is now enjoying the companionship of his own kind. It was decided to introduce Kodak slowly to the other capuchins to ensure that he would be accepted. His first companion has been Joey, a gentle male with a lust for life. Joey endured a similar start in life to Kodak; torn from the wild then kept alone in a small cage in London. Due to poor diet, and a lack of natural light, Joey tragically developed a number of physical ailments including a curved spine, displaced hips and problems with his mouth. Yet, despite his suffering Joey retains a gentle and positive nature, and is an excellent first companion for Kodak. From the outset, Kodak immediately took to his new companion with great excitement; initially he was even a little rough with his delicate friend. Nevertheless, the introduction was successful, and gave a glimpse of what is developing into a great friendship. At the next meeting, Joey quickly asserted himself and Kodak responded, with the two little monkeys going on to enjoy a playful rough and tumble, on Joey’s terms. Subsequent meetings have all gone well, and it is hoped that over time Kodak and Joey will be introduced to the other capuchins. Eventually they can be integrated into a new family group, to enjoy a full and happy life for potentially, another 30 years or more. It is hard to imagine just how much this means to these small monkeys whose lives have now been transformed. © Animal Defenders International

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

NAVS & ADI

Rescue News

Orlandito to go wild!

In what could be one of our most exciting rescues ever, we are currently funding the rehabilitation of Orlandito, a brown capuchin monkey, with the aim of returning him and his four companions to the wild in Colombia! Orlandito was illegally trafficked, then rescued by Colombia’s environmental police and placed in the Unity Rescue and Rehabilitation of Wild Animals Centre, (URRAS) in Bogotá. Here he lived with three other capuchins who, after three years of rehabilitation, were

reintroduced to the wild. But poor Orlandito missed out because of rivalry between himself and another male in the group. Orlandito needed his own group – and soon, they started to arrive. ‘Jivi’, a female found abandoned in a bag in a street in Bogotá; ‘Meeku’ and ‘Sibroa’, two young females confiscated after being sold as pets; another female, ‘Taikure’, was to join them but tragically never made it; ill health and injuries took their toll and she passed away.

Now Orlandito is the male in a new group with the three females. They will be leaving the rudimentary pen in Bogotá and heading to a remote location in the warmer state of Meta, where we are funding the construction of a large enclosure. They will experience the smells, sounds, and natural vegetation of the area. They will be monitored as they adapt again to the world from which they were snatched. Finally, when ready, the enclosure door will open and the primates will take their first steps to freedom. We may fit Orlandito with a radio collar so that we can monitor the group’s progress and ensure they are safe. As well as what we hope will be the first step for freedom for these animals, our new facility will be used for other rescued animals in Colombia in future. This is an incredibly exciting project and we do hope that you will consider sending a donation to support it. Better still, join our adoption scheme with a regular contribution and follow the progress of Orlandito and friends.

Toto and the great escape!

Toto continues to enjoy his freedom in the Zambian bush at Chimfunshi and now shares his enclosure with twelve other chimps. He’s come a long way since we saved him from isolation, living in a packing crate in Chile, but his 14 acres may still not be quite enough, as he recently led his family on a breakout! Chimfunshi staff got quite a shock when they went to prepare breakfast for the chimps, and one by one the Toto family filed out of the foodstore into the courtyard, having helped themselves! A face-off between staff and chimps ensued with a flurry of excited hoots from the chimps. It was a tense moment for the humans, because even the smaller chimps are very powerful and Toto is a huge chimpanzee. However, gentle as ever, Toto calmed down the younger ones as the staff attempted to lure the chimps back into their enclosure. For our gallant leader, Toto, the lure of peanuts and biscuits proved too good to resist – he followed the bucket of food back into the enclosure and with him went his band of escapees.

Help care for rescued animals for the rest of their lives

Our adoption scheme is vital for the long term care of the animals we have rescued and for ensuring we can save more animals in the future. Adopters receive a beautiful certificate with a drawing of your animal, Toto News our adoption newsletter, and the Big Cat Rescue or Toto Goes Home DVD! All for a monthly donation of £4. You can also help our rescues by purchasing our special signed prints in elegant dark frame, accompanied by a certificate with the story of how the image was taken by the photographer. Exterior measurement is 43x53.5cm. £60. Call 020 7630 3340 for more details or complete the form on the back of this magazine.

ADI & NAVS

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

I re la n d

The Department of Agriculture of Ireland invited ADI to make a presentation on animals in circuses as part of the consultation for the Animal Health and Welfare Bill. Our team joined Ireland’s Animal Rights Action Network for an event outside the meeting with our inflatable elephant. ADI’s Alexandra Cardenas and Helder Constantino presented the Ministry with evidence of the suffering of animals and legislative proposals. The Bill is expected to be introduced in spring next year.

Greece

Steady progress has been made on the Greek circus animal campaign. Evgenia Mataragka of the Greek Animal Welfare Fund, our campaign partner, has been pressing the Ministry to act. Video footage taken in May 2009 of an elephant with Circo Massimo in Florina being repeatedly hit and hooked about the head and face has increased the pressure for action. Agriculture Minister Sotiris Hadzigakis has described the incident as “out of tune with our culture.”

Norway

ADI and our Norwegian Stop Circus Suffering (SCS) campaign partner NOAH, have kept the pressure on the Norwegian government. A proposal to ban the use of certain species including zebras, kangaroos, sea lions and other exotic animals possibly including elephants is being discussed.

In March, Cirkus Agora announced that they are now animal free. The circus was investigated by our Field Officers and appeared in the Norwegian SCS DVD. This leaves just two animal circuses in Norway.

Portugal

We have called for an inquiry following the collapse of an elephant with Circo Victor Hugo in Tavira. This is the same circus where we filmed an elephant being jabbed in the face 20 times during a performance by owner Victor Hugo Cardinalli. Our witness reported seeing the elephant appear unwell and then collapse to the ground. She alerted the circus who promptly told her to leave. Later that day the circus moved to Faro. The witness informed the police in Faro and supplied photographs, but they claimed that they lacked power to act.

The police in Tavira were also informed and presented with extracts of the ADI DVD ‘Basta de Sufrimiento nos Circos’. Meanwhile, the Assembly of the Republic of Portugal is discussing three Bills on animal circuses. The Green/Ecological Party’s Bill includes a ban on wild animals in circuses and a five year phase out of domestic animals. The Left Block’s proposal would ban the use of wild animals. The Portuguese Communist Party’s Bill bans the use of great apes in circuses and has measures to prevent circuses from adding new wild animals to their acts. ADI, along with the Portuguese SCS campaign partner ANIMAL, will press for the strongest legislation.

How YOU can help

1. Contact your MP: Write to your MP calling for a ban on wild animals in UK circuses and strict controls on domestic species. Order our NEW Circus postcards to give to friends to send. 2. Let us know! If you see animal circus posters being put up for upcoming shows in your area, call us.

Stop Circus Suffering

More UK Circus elephants. Still no Government action.

This year, the Great British Circus has imported three elephants from Germany. The move shows the damage caused by the Government’s prevarication over the ban on wild animal acts, three years after it was promised in Parliament. In addition, some local authority bans are being challenged on the basis of the inept and, by its own admission, inconclusive Defra Circus Working Group Report which the Government has failed to set aside. This utter mess and confusion lies squarely at the feet of the Department of Environment, imal Defenders International Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The Government must act before we drift back to widespread wild animal use in UK circuses. In 1997, there were 16 elephants touring the UK with circuses. But in January 1998, 3. Distribute our leaflets & display our posters: Order our NEW Circus leaflets and distribute to members of the public, friends and family. Ask if your local doctor, library, veterinary clinic will display some! 4. Organise a peaceful protest: Distribute our leaflets to inform people - but be careful, many circuses have a history of violence. 5. Become a ‘Circus Scout’ to keep an eye on circuses in your area – recording movements of the animals at the circus.

the release of an ADI undercover investigation of UK animal circuses precipitated the collapse of the animal circus industry. In the subsequent years, the elephants we featured were sold, retired or died – only Anne, a 56-yearold, arthritic elephant remained on tour with Bobby Roberts Circus. Many thought this poor, lonely, broken old elephant would mark the end of the line for elephants in British circuses. The Great British Circus elephants, Sonja, Delhi and Vana Mana (two Asian, one African), have joined a show that includes tigers, lions, camels, zebras, reindeer and horses. The elephants spend most of the day in a small enclosure in a tent, with some access to an outdoor paddock – usually an uninteresting grass playing field. Over 80% of the British public support a ban on wild animal acts. Last year, more than 180 cross-party MPs signed the

6. Write to your local newspaper urging people to only go to circuses that have human-only acts. Express your dismay that elephants are yet again being paraded at UK circuses for human ‘entertainment’. 7. Raise funds: Keep our Field Officers on the trail of the circuses and our moves to secure legislation all over the world on track. If you would like to discuss how to help or to order leaflets, postcards or posters please contact us on 020 7630 3340 or email, info@ad-international.org

Early Day Motion, co-promoted by ADI, RSPCA, BFF, CAPS, calling for the Government to fulfil its commitment to ban wild animals and to set up effective controls for domesticated species. Audiences for the Great British Circus shows have been small, confirming that wild animal acts will linger on, despite lacking serious popular support. This needs decisive Government action. Defra was expected to finish a feasibility study in 2008, intended to inform new regulations under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, but despite a request signed by all of the animal protection groups, we have not had sight of this. In February, High Wycombe Council lifted a 16 year old ban on the use of domestic animals in circuses, with some councillors believing that the Animal Welfare Act was enough to protect the welfare of circus animals. Yet Defra’s delays mean that no regulations have yet been drawn up. Following the decision, Zippo’s Circus will visit High Wycombe. In October, Chesham Council reviewed their policy of allowing animals to perform on Council land, after Bobby Roberts’ Circus used Anne the elephant for promotion. Councillor Michael called for a ban, but the Council decided against. Lisbury Council also decided not to ban animal circuses. Many local authorities are confused by the discredited Defra circus report and the lack of regulation that was promised under the Animal Welfare Act. Many are taking guidance from the circus industry, which is making exaggerated claims about Defra’s position. In June, Wandsworth Borough Council will decide whether to ban wild animal acts. Battersea Park already has a ban on wild animal circuses and a recent request for a circus there was turned down. Councillors are being urged to extend the ban to cover all of the authority’s open spaces. ADI has made a written submission to the Council report and will be making a presentation.

Left: Sonja, Delhi and Vana Mana with the Great British Circus. They spend most of their time in this tent. Below left: ADI Chief Executive Jan Creamer is filmed by the BBC condemning the arrival of the circus elephants with the Great British Circus.

New ADI undercover investigation launched and legislation before Parliament in Brazil

Above: A circus worker brutalising a camel with a metal bar inside Circo Estoril, Brazil.

Top: The screening of ADI's undercover investigation in Sao Paulo with representatives of ADI, AILA and GAP.

Circo Estoril from displaying its animals. The ADI team then flew to the capital Brasilia to lobby for a new Bill banning animal circuses, scheduled for discussion by the Commission for Education and Culture of the Chamber of Deputies of the Brazilian parliament. ADI strongly supports the initiative of the sponsor of the Bill, Congressman Antonio © Animal Defenders International Carlos Biffi, and distributed a new report – New shocking footage of in Portuguese – detailing the abuses violence in Brazilian circuses suffered by animals in circuses. was revealed to journalists Unfortunately, the hearing was cancelled and public at the launch of the Stop by the chairman of the Commission for Circus Suffering campaign in Sao Paulo Education, who is reported to be a on 29th October 2008. Having already supporter of circuses and has delayed uncovered shocking abuse, confinement the progress of the Bill, despite strong and deprivation behind the scenes in support for the ban amongst the public circuses throughout South America, and Brazilian parliamentarians. Europe and the USA, in 2008 an ADI Field Officer secured footage behind the In Brazil, prohibitions are already in scenes at Circo Estoril and Circo place in over thirty cities in the states of Stankowich in Brazil. Sao Paulo, Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, Pernambuco, Rio de Janeiro, Our latest footage includes camels being amongst others – many of these secured punched, hit with a stick and a tent pole using evidence from the original ADI or having their lips twisted to inflict pain; ‘Ugliest Show on Earth’ investigation and solitary elephants chained barely able to campaign. A poll launched by TV move in a stadium with deafening noise; Channel ‘O Globo’ showed that more a solitary bear forced to live in a cage on than 95% of Brazilians want to ban all the back of a truck; a llama having its animals in circuses. ear twisted. The ADI footage was presented in association with Brazilian Despite the cancellation of the hearing, NGOs, in particular AILA, GAP, ANAMI we distributed our report and DVD doorand with the sponsorship of cruelty-free to-door to all members of the cosmetics company Surya. Commission for Education to press them to do whatever it takes to move the The new DVD is narrated by popular legislation forward. We received a lot of young actress Daniela Adler Piepszyk help for our campaign in Brasilia from who also spoke at the launch in Sao local volunteers and partner groups, Paulo. Our footage was shown on the especially ProAnima, who organised a most popular television programme in demonstration in front of the Parliament Brazil, “Fantastico”, and viewed by which received wide media coverage. millions. Within days, a judge prohibited

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Peru

The Agrarian Commission of the Peruvian Congress has approved the Bill banning animals in circuses, presented by Peruvian Congressmen Alejandro Rebaza and José Antonio Urquizo. Following the debate, the Commission decided to amend the National Animal Protection Law by adding an article banning the use of animals in circuses. The Bill has been supported by several governmental agencies, National Service for Agrarian Health (SENASA), the National Institute for Natural Resources (INRENA) and the natural park “Las Leyendas”. This positive vote is a major victory for ADI, after an intense lobbying effort. The ADI campaigns team has met with over 100 congressmen and presented them with our DVDs and reports. The Bill will now be discussed in the full parliament. This puts Peru on course for a national ban, which could have a huge impact across the whole continent.

Colombia

Last year Senators Jairo Clopatofsky and Elsa Gladys Cifuentes tabled separate bills to ban animals in circuses. These have now been withdrawn in favour of presenting a joint cross party Bill in July. Meanwhile, Congressman David Luna’s Bill amending the national animal protection law has received increased public support and will soon be debated in the Plenary of the Chamber of Representatives. ADI Suramérica continues to negotiate the rescue of ex-circus chimpanzees Karla and Panchito. The Ministry of Environment had promised its decision in December, but no news has been forthcoming. We have presented several Freedom of Information Act requests about the case.

NAVS & ADI

Left: Brazilian TV Channel 'O Globo' at the launch of the campaign to interview Juan Pablo Olmos from ADI Above: Young actress Daniela Adler Piepszyk, who narrated Stop Circus Suffering Brazil sitting between Helder Constantino and Juan Pablo Olmos from ADI

Bobby, the 27-year-old chimp living with Karla in Medellín Zoo died in September 2008 – a young age for a chimp. The other chimpanzee with Karla, Chita, has now been returned to Matecaña Zoo in Pereira to live with Panchito and Karla has been left alone. Panchito was also discarded by the Gasca Circus after he bit a worker and he was badly beaten. He was donated to the Matecaña Zoo in Pereira were he was living alone in a tiny enclosure. The Zoo built a new enclosure which he now shares with Chita. ADI Field Officers reported that no proper preparations were made for the two chimps to be introduced before living together and they were regularly fighting. ADI has raised this issue with the Ministry, pointing out that moving the chimps around in this way has destroyed Karla and Chita’s social group and caused great stress to Panchito. We continue to offer to rehome the animals.

ADI: ‘Animal D e f e n d er o f the Year 2008’

In September, ADI was presented with Colombia’s ‘Animal Defender of the Year 2008 award’ © Animal Defenders International sponsored by the local animal protection organisation Defenzoores and the University of Antioquia. The award commended ADI’s impact and hard work on behalf of the animals in Colombia. ADI’s South America Campaigns Coordinator, Juan Pablo Olmos, received the award and screened a video showing ADI’s South American activity on lobbying, education, public awareness and rescue negotiations. We would like to thank those organisations working so hard with us in Colombia: Defenzoores, Sociedad Protectora de Animales de Medellín, Fundación Mentes Verdes, SPAC, Amigos del Planeta, REN, y FAUNA.

ADI & NAVS

Bolivian Congress votes to ban animal circuses!

Left and bottom: ADI Field Officers uncovered horrifc conditions for animals inside Bolivia. The misery is over now!

The campaign team unfurls a “Thank you” banner after Bolivian senators vote to stop circus suffering.

Two years after the launch of the ADI Stop Circus Suffering campaign Bolivian Senators voted in May 2009 to ban the use of animals in circuses. The first national ban in South America and a testament to good campaigning and dedication. An ADI undercover investigation of Bolivian circuses revealed bears, monkeys, lions, dogs, horses, donkeys and llamas living in apalling conditions. Within a year of launching the findings several major cities banned animal acts – El Alto, La Paz, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba. Last year these were put to the test by a planned visit by Las Vegas magic act The Fercos Brothers featuring various big cats. The bans held and the wild animal acts were kept out of the country. ADI has been working with Congresswoman Ximena Flores Castro, who presented a Bill banning all animals in circuses. An intense lobby campaign to get support for the Bill included letter writing, postcards, lobbying, publications and mobilising local campaigners. Our campaign partners in the area are EBA Bolivia, ADDA Bolivia, Zooprama, Biosfera, Vida Silvestre, Animales SOS, CODAC, FOCOMADE, Foromade ORURO, Comité Interinstitucional de defensa de animales FIDO, SPAT, Resistencia Animal (La Paz) amongst others. The Bill was passed by the Chamber of Deputies in January and we intensified our campaign with a range of new materials for senators. ADI Suramérica Campaigns Coordinator Juan Pablo Olmos met senators right up to the vote and on May 13th 2009, the Bill was approved in the Plenary of Senate. The Bill will now be returned to the Chamber of Deputies for final adoption, then it will be sent to President Evo Morales for Presidential assent. ADI is also participating in the consultation on an animal protection bill and has submitted draft proposals covering a wide range of © Animal Defenders International issues. The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

New project to identify factors of lens cell survival

A capsular ocular bag secured with entomological pins in a tissue culture dish.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Cataract, a consequence of ageing, affects the lens in the eye. Currently the only method of treating cataract is by surgery. This initially restores high visual quality, but sometimes a condition known as PCO (Posterior Capsule Opacification) can occur. PCO is the most common complication of cataract surgery. It can develop in a significant proportion of patients, to such an extent that a secondary loss of vision occurs. Modern cataract operations create a capsular bag comprised of a back and a front section. This remains in the eye and in most cases, houses an intraocular lens. On the front capsule, lens cells persist despite surgical trauma and can begin to re-colonise the capsule, spreading onto the lens surface and most importantly of all, begin to colonise the previously cell-free back capsule. A thin layer of cells will not affect the light path, and hence vision, but subsequent changes to the matrix and cell organisation can cause light to scatter. If these changes are sufficiently severe, vision can be impaired, requiring expensive and sometimes risky corrective laser surgery. The aims of this project are to test novel culture conditions for human capsular bag maintenance, and assess the different lens designs and the effects these have on PCO prevention. The research will use capsular bags dissected from human donors. The capsular bags are staked out in dishes with pins and studied with the lenses in place. The aim is not to understand the mechanisms of PCO development, but to determine if lenses can have putative medical benefit using a human tissue culture system. The project aims to identify the actions of human serum and growth factors on lens cell survival and the ability of certain lenses to eradicate processes which are important in PCO development i.e. cell growth and proliferation.

An LDF funded project is currently underway to construct a non-animal model of cartilage to test the healing and regenerative effects of ultra-sound. A new composite material will be developed as a scaffold in cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers made homogenous, mechanically stable gels. In testing these it was found that composite strength increased with the concentration of certain chemicals. Human cells were cultured on discs of both alginate (derived from brown algae) and a composite material; the scaffolds showed different levels of cellular activity. This element of the project demonstrates that, by incorporating certain elements into alginate, the biological activity of the composite is increased, as is its strength. The next stage is to assess the response of the stem cells, in the composite, to ultrasound. The apparatus was assembled to deliver ultrasound to the material. Tests were then run to ensure that the apparatus’ sound wave output matched those from clinical devices used to accelerate fracture healing. The frequency and pulsing regime of the apparatus matched that of clinical orthopaedic units. In the coming months, the technique will be used to investigate the response to ultrasound of stem cells which have differentiated to become bone cells.

Dr. Vehid Salih, who works on the project with Dr. Jamie Harle.

Picture: A capsular ocular bag with an intraocular lens implanted.

LDF project to construct non-animal tissue model to study therapeutic ultrasound effects in cartilage

NAVS & ADI

Research Without Animals Update on 3D all human blood brain barrier model

ADI Bookworm

Stained endothelial cells.

ADI & NAVS

LDF funded research into the movement of cancer (metastasis) into the brain has created a model of the bloodbrain barrier (B-BB). This unique, all human tissue model will be used to identify the pathways which the malignant cells take to cross the tight barriers in the B-BB and the mechanisms involved. This is important as the early detection of cancer before it has spread to the brain, which occurs in around Astrocytes stained for viewing under a microscope. 25% of cancers, can facilitate its effective treatment. Professor Pilkington and his team at Portsmouth University are assessing the B-BB model monitoring cell behaviour, morphology, growth and attachment. This is done using techniques such as microscopy, dyeing the cells with immunoflorescence and flow cytometry, which counts, examines and sorts cells. This information will be used to assess the components of the B-BB model which will be used in further research, creating a model which is even more like the in vivo human situation. The model consists of cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (CMEC) (which typically line the blood vessels), and supportive cells called astrocytes. Sandwiched between these cells is a membrane filter which can be coated with various extracellular matrices which act as the connective and supportive tissues in animals. These assemblies are placed in a co-culture of mediums which cause cell growth. The team have so far added lung cancer cells to monolayer CMECs. In this experiment the cancer cells were clearly observed, using time lapse images, to pass through the CMEC layer and penetrating back through it in a different place. This demonstrated the high metastatic potential of these cells. In the next exciting phase of the research, the model will be used to examine the metastatic behaviour of other malignant cells including breast and skin cancer (melanoma) as well as using mediums which will flow over the cells, recreating the dynamic fluid system found in the brain.

In today’s hectic world there are precious moments that provide instant serenity like being curled up with a great book. ADI has been delving into the bookshelves to bring you some of the very best indulgences that can be enjoyed by the whole family, and with each book available as a prize, beating the credit crunch starts right here! Happy reading! Where to Go

Wild in Britain! The British Isles are home to an incredible array of wildlife. From golden eagles to red squirrels and red shanks, there is a huge diversity of flora and fauna to discover. Where to Go Wild in Britain will reveal all. We have 5 copies to give away, just answer this question: Which two LDF grant holders met with MEPs to discuss the revision of the EU lab rules?? Publisher: call 020 7010 3000 or www.dorlingkindersley-uk.co.uk The Eyes of the Jungle

The Eyes of the Jungle is the story of tigers living on the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in India and the people who travel there to meet these incredible beasts. It includes a history of the evolution of the tiger and the manners, habits and nature of this species. For publisher contact: Bucher Publishing on 0845 070 5656 To win a copy of this beautifully illustrated book, answer this question: Who is going to be released back into the WILD in Colombia?

For all entries: state the book title, your answer and your full contact details, (name, address, telephone number and email). Post: ADI, Millbank Tower, Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP, or by email: info@ad-international.org.uk Entry deadline is 31st July 2009.

The Animal Defender & Campaigner

Spring/Summer 2009

Inside Huntingdon Life Sciences, Monkey number 88 peers out between the bars of a cage.

❑ Yes! I would like to join ADI, NAVS and LDF’s efforts to end animal abuse and suffering around the world.

without us no one hears their stories

Please complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS, using a ball point pen, and return by post to Animal Defenders International, Millbank Tower, Millbank, LONDON, SW1P 4QP, UK.

Name: .................................................................................................................... Address: ......................................................................................................................... .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................................................... Postcode: ................................................................. We are sometimes asked by similar organisations if they may write to our supporters. We would allow this only if the organisation is reputable. This allows us to raise funds for our work, if you DO NOT wish your name to be included, please tick here ■

Please accept my donation of ■ £100

■ £75 ■ £50 ■ £25* ■ £15 £ ..................................................................... other

* A donation of £25 or more gets you a year’s subscription to our magazine and other mailings Please accept my Cheque/Postal Order. (Payable to ADI) or please debit my: Card number

■

■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■ ■

■ Visa ■ Mastercard ■ Switch/Maestro, Issue Number

■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Valid from Date

(minimum £4)

■ I would like to sign up for ADI’s Monthly Giving Programme. Please send me more information. ■ Please send me more information about ADI. ■ Please send me more information about Animal Adoptions. Please send me ■ 5 ■ 10 ■ 25 ■ 50 .......... (other) Save The Primates leaflets. Please send me ■ 5 ■ 10 ■ 25 ■ 50 .......... (other) Stop Circus Suffering leaflets. Please send me ■ 5 ■ 10 ■ 25 ■ 50 .......... (other) Kick Animal Testing Out of The House leaflets.

Expiry Date

■ Please sign me up for ADI’s email alerts! My email address is ................................................................................................................................................................ Animal Defenders International UK: Millbank Tower, Millbank, LONDON, SW1P 4QP, UK. Tel: +44 (0)20 7630 3340 e-mail: info@ad-international.org

US: 953 Mission St., Suite 200, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103, USA. Toll-free: 1-800-978-ADII (2344) Local: +1 415 543-2344 e-mail: usa@ad-international.org

South America: Apartado Postal 359888 BOGOTÁ, Colombia. info@ad-international.org www.ad-international.org • www.navs.org.uk • www.ldf.org.uk • www.savetheprimates.org