Beagles are the number one breed of dog used for scientific research in laboratories. Their docile nature and smaller size make them one of the most beloved pets, but sadly these traits also make them ideal for experiments. Some of the Beagles and other dogs used in laboratories are lucky enough to be rescued by organizations like the Rescue + Freedom Project (formerly Beagle Freedom Project) and find homes once their time at the facilities is over. But this is not the reality for most laboratory animals.

The Beagle has lent its name to the “Beagle Bill” also known as the Humane Adoption of Companion Animals in Research Act, legislation introduced in Maryland that provides an opportunity for dogs and cats used in scientific research to be adopted into homes when their time at a laboratory is over.


Unfortunately, the bill was defeated in the state in 2017 under opposition from Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland – but efforts to make it law are far from over. The measure has been reintroduced as HB 732/SB 675 and it is now critical to fight back against institutions working to kill the legislation.

The JHU Pet and Animal Welfare Society has launched a Care2 petition to show public support for the legislation – which, at its core, is simply “a common-sense animal protection bill.” The bill requires research institutions to work with willing animal rescue organizations to find homes for pets once they are no longer needed in laboratories.

The aim of the Beagle Bill is simply to give the animals used for scientific development a chance to have normal happy lives. The legislation would be a fantastic development for laboratory dogs and cats – and would offer them something that they could not deserve more.

Click here to sign the petition urging the Maryland General Assembly to pass the Humane Adoption of Companion Animals in Research Act and demanding that Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland withdraw their opposition!


Image source: mus15house/Pixabay

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