Opportunity or . . . Owned

A friend in social media suggested I join the ever growing network of "nature friendly products."  This particular social reference pertained to products that were not tested on animals.  I've always joked in the truth that I don't test my products on animals, I make family and friends try them . . . So at first I was excited at the opportunity to apply for membership in this group.  My enthusiasm passed quickly into contemplation as I really thought about what this meant for my business.

My next venture was going to be natural products for animals, such as doggie shampoo and flea and tick repellent.  How will I know if it works, if I don't test it on my animals?  If I do test it on my animals, then I'm breaking the agreement I've made with these promotional sites.  That was only the first thought of my dilemma.  The next thought really bothered me, although it's difficult to actually say why.

I've made several products out of need for loved ones.  These products formulated to bring comfort to my children and grandchildren aren't tested before they are applied, they are simply created to provide comfort and healing for whatever the complaint.  As a business person, does that mean I'm using my family in a way that is seen as cruelty to animals?  Sometimes I think we have created so many causes, we're on the brink of causing creativity to cease.

For the most part, I try my products on myself first, but those are just simple soaps and oils.  The products that bring comfort and ease for specific conditions are formulated at the time they are needed.  A few have been developed for my own use, but many, I've developed for someone else.  It's really just a matter of trying something to see if it helps!   Seeing if it helps is the same thing as "testing."

Upon giving serious thought to the completion of this application, I saw several situations that could "come back on me."  First, I have no idea what all the laws are where some of my product grows indigenously, so I I'm not willing to sign my name to full assurance of their ethics and practice.  Second, considering the fact I "test" my products on my beloved grandchildren seems ridiculous in some company's concern for animals. Third, how will I develop natural products for pets, if I don't test them on animals?  Finally when it comes right down to it, I don't want to promote products that haven't been tested.   I refuse to promote a product simply based on an idea it will be useful or effective.  I realize every product doesn't always help everyone, but a business cannot promote a product without know it's effectiveness, just to make money!