A 1983 site-visit evaluation report from the American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care that reviews the state of animal research facilities at the University of Michigan. It summarizes widespread deficiencies in surgical spaces, sanitation practices, housing conditions, ventilation, lighting, and animal health oversight, along with required corrective actions. Notable findings include dirty and blood-stained surgical areas, overcrowded or improperly sized cages, rusted or urine-encrusted cages and equipment, and a morgue freezer overfull of dead animals amid blood and other debris.
The article reports on the formation of the Michigan Society for Medical Research at the University of Michigan, a group advocating for the continued use of animals in scientific research amid growing opposition from animal-welfare organizations and pending federal legislation. It highlights statements from Dr. Bennett Cohen and others arguing that animal research is essential, warning that proposed regulations would increase costs and hinder scientific progress.
