Wayne State University Faces Backlash for Alleged Euthanasia of Research Animals Without Adoption Opportunities

Detroit’s Dog Experiment Controversy

A group advocating for animal rights is pushing for an investigation into Wayne State University’s treatment of dogs used in research. Ryan Merkley, from the Physicians’ Committee for Responsible Medicine, claims that the university keeps these dogs in a hidden, windowless area, subjecting them to painful experiments aimed at understanding human heart health.

According to Merkley, this method is not only outdated but has led to the deaths of hundreds of dogs since 1991. He describes how these animals undergo multiple surgeries where devices are implanted in and around their hearts. They are forced to run on treadmills until their heart rates reach dangerous levels.

Records indicate that at least 152 dogs have died or been euthanized at Wayne State since 2010. Some feel that dogs are literally being worked to death as the university discards those who can’t meet the rigorous demands of the studies. One dog, referred to as “Dog No. 3002,” was put down when it couldn’t perform on the treadmill, highlighting concerns about the priority being placed on results over animal welfare. Marks of distress, like a wound on its paw, were reportedly ignored, raising questions about care practices.

Wayne State has declined to comment directly on these allegations but provided a letter explaining their decisions regarding the euthanization of Dog No. 3002. Critics argue that failing to seek a second opinion before euthanizing violates Michigan’s Teddy’s Law, which states labs must adopt out animals that are healthy enough.

Current efforts are underway to prompt the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to investigate. Merkley believes this could be a historic case, as it would be the first examination under Teddy’s Law since its enactment.

Also, there might be hope for a more permanent change. A proposed bill known as Queenie’s Law aims to end dog experiments at the state level, reflecting a growing movement against animal testing.

In a recent poll, nearly 80% of respondents expressed their disapproval of animal testing in medical research, suggesting that public sentiment is shifting. Advocacy groups continue to rally, working to transform research methods to more humane alternatives, like computer modeling and advanced imaging techniques.

For more detailed coverage, you can read about the state of animal research in studies from institutions like the Journal of Medical Ethics and organizations focused on animal welfare.

As this topic unfolds, the conversation around animal testing’s ethics and necessity remains crucial, highlighting a significant societal shift toward compassion and prevention.

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