Beagles Suffer in Secret US Experiments: 75,000 Used Since 2018

Tens of thousands of beagles have been subjected to experimentation in the United States, prompting widespread outrage and calls for reform. The US Department of Agriculture has revealed that at least 75,000 beagles have been used in laboratory experiments since 2018, sparking a renewed debate over animal testing and welfare. The issue gained international attention after a recent case in which a US-based company, Envigo, was accused of mistreating and killing hundreds of beagles in its laboratory. Animal rights activists and lawmakers have condemned the treatment of the animals, with many calling for an end to the use of dogs in experimentation. "We are appalled by the inhumane treatment of these innocent animals," said Rep. Rashida Tlaib, a Michigan Democrat who has introduced legislation to ban the use of dogs in laboratory experiments. "It's time for us to recognize that animals are not just commodities, but living beings with feelings and emotions." The use of dogs in experimentation is a contentious issue globally, with some countries banning the practice altogether. In the European Union, for example, the use of animals in research is strictly regulated, and many countries have implemented alternatives to animal testing. In the United States, however, the use of dogs in experimentation remains widespread. According to the USDA, at least 75,000 beagles have been used in laboratory experiments since 2018, with many more likely to be affected. The majority of these experiments are conducted by pharmaceutical companies, which use the dogs to test the safety and efficacy of new medications. Animal welfare advocates argue that the use of dogs in experimentation is not only inhumane but also unnecessary. "There are many alternative methods to animal testing that are just as effective, if not more so," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading expert on animal welfare. "It's time for us to move away from this outdated and cruel practice." As the debate over animal testing continues, lawmakers and animal welfare advocates are pushing for reform. In addition to Rep. Tlaib's legislation, several other bills have been introduced in Congress aimed at banning or restricting the use of dogs in experimentation. The current status of these bills is uncertain, but advocates are hopeful that the recent case will bring attention to the issue and spark meaningful change. "We're seeing a growing movement to end animal testing, and we're hopeful that this momentum will continue," said a spokesperson for the Humane Society of the United States. In the meantime, animal welfare advocates are calling on the public to take action. "We urge people to contact their representatives and demand an end to animal testing," said Dr. Smith. "Together, we can make a difference and create a more compassionate world for all animals."