July 19, 2022
Back in May, we issued a strong statement decrying a commercial laboratory animal breeder, Envigo (now owned by Inotiv) for violations of the Animal Welfare Act documented by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a press release announcing that Envigo will surrender more than 4,000 beagles to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).
Notably absent is any tangible penalty for these egregious violations, which include “failing to meet the AWA’s minimum standards for handling, housing, feeding, watering, sanitation and adequate veterinary care, among other requirements.” The DOJ makes no mention of any fines or any other penalties.
We reiterate: As an organization that strongly supports and advocates for the humane and responsible treatment of laboratory animals, Speaking of Research denounces any organization that does not meet its obligation to ensure the welfare of its animals and make concerted efforts to respond to errors with corrective action.
Speaking of Research 