BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- Thirty-six billboards promoting the use of animals in medical research have been posted in Bakersfield, KERO reported.

They feature "Buddy," the dog who is alive because of a procedure developed through animal research.

The billboards are paid for by the Washington-based lobbying and pubic relations organization Foundation for Biomedical Research.

The signs in Bakersfield are some of the first in a nationwide campaign to promote animal research.

Bakersfield is the first place to have them in the state, mainly because of sign availability, according to the foundation president.

Local veterinarian John Torrey said the research is necessary to further medicine for people and animals. He said it is well-regulated.

However, California State University, Bakersfield anthropology professor Dr. Jane Granskog said while she is not against animal research, it needs to be better regulated so animals don't suffer. Granskog is on the committee to regulate animal testing at the university.

The billboards will be up for the next few weeks.