NIH Shutters Beagle Laboratory Amid Controversy Over Animal Testing Practices

In a significant move, the National Institutes of Health director Jay Bhattacharya announced the closure of its last in-house beagle laboratory on the NIH campus. This decision emerged from ongoing scrutiny over animal testing practices within the agency.

The announcement coincided with a statement from the head of the Department of Government Efficiency, Elon Musk, who indicated that he would initiate an investigation into funding for beagle experiments. This inquiry reflects increasing concerns about the ethical implications of using animals in research.

Allegations of Cruel Practices

A report from the White Coat Waste project outlined a troubling history at the lab, alleging that over 2,000 beagles endured severe experimental procedures. These allegedly included exposure to pneumonia-causing bacteria, bloodletting, and inducing septic shocks. Such claims have drawn widespread criticism from animal rights advocates.

Following the announcement, Anthony Bellotti, president and founder of White Coat Waste, expressed gratitude towards former President Donald Trump for dismantling what they described as a highly controversial program. Bellotti stated, “Taxpayers and pet owners shouldn’t be forced to pay for the NIH’s beagle abuse. We applaud the President for cutting this wasteful NIH spending and will keep fighting until we defund all dog labs at home and abroad. The solution is simple: Stop the money. Stop the madness!”

Shifts in Animal Testing Policies

These developments mirror a broader shift in policies surrounding animal testing. Shortly after the Trump administration took office, the Food and Drug Administration announced a phased reduction in animal testing requirements for certain drugs. The focus has shifted to using materials that closely mimic human organs for testing.

Environmental Protection Agency chief Lee Zeldin also indicated intentions to reinstate a policy from the first Trump administration centered on phasing out animal testing practices. This trend represents a growing consensus on the ethical treatment of animals in scientific research.

Impact of Advocacy Groups

Groups like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, commonly known as PETA, have played a vital role in advocating for changes in animal testing practices. Following the closure of the NIH facility, PETA sent flowers to Bhattacharya, reinforcing their support for the decision. Bhattacharya remarked, “Normally, I think NIH directors tend to get physical threats, but they sent me flowers,” highlighting the unexpected nature of their response.

In previous years, PETA was vocal in condemning alleged funding by Dr. Anthony Fauci for experiments involving beagle puppies. Reports surfaced about experiments conducted in Tunisia where beagle puppies were subjected to drugging and confinement. Strong reactions followed, prompting bipartisan lawmakers, including Rep. Nancy Mace, to address these cruel practices directly with Fauci.

Positive Reactions from Animal Advocacy Groups

Kathy Guillermo, PETA’s senior vice president of laboratory investigations, shared her organization’s relief following the announcement of the NIH facility’s closure. She emphasized how essential this decision is for modernizing scientific practices. Guillermo stated, “We are letting the new NIH Director know how important this step is for modernizing science, and we’re especially happy because these last experiments involved sepsis, which we have been working to end for several years. Sepsis experiments on animals are failures.”

Guillermo also indicated that PETA has a pending lawsuit under the current administration aiming to prevent any further government funding for sepsis experiments. This reflects ongoing efforts by advocacy groups to influence policy and protect animals in research.

Legal Consequences for Breeders

Meanwhile, significant developments occurred for Envigo, the Indiana-based company that bred the beagles for research purposes. In early 2024, Envigo pleaded guilty to neglecting thousands of dogs at its Virginia facility, resulting in fines exceeding $35 million imposed by the American Veterinary Medical Association. This legal action underscores broader accountability within the animal research industry.

Guillermo remarked on the implications of this closure, stating, “We are just thrilled to see that the [Envigo] beagles who were used [at the NIH location] will no longer be used. We first exposed [Envigo] in an undercover investigation that eventually led to the closure of the facility and the release of 4,000 beagles to good homes.” Such outcomes highlight the impact of advocacy and oversight in improving conditions for animals.

Looking Ahead

PETA is currently seeking information about the conditions of the dogs previously used in NIH experiments. If their health allows for adoption, PETA stands ready to assist in finding homes for these animals. Guillermo expressed optimism regarding the NIH’s current direction, stating, “Dr. Bhattacharya has made a wonderful start, and there is a lot more work to be done, because animals are being experimented on, including beagles and other dogs, across the country. So we’re looking forward to what comes next.”

As the NIH navigates these changes, the agency’s response and policy direction in the future will be closely watched by animal rights organizations and the public alike. The ongoing dialogue surrounding animal testing practices continues to evolve, reflecting growing awareness and concern for the ethical treatment of animals.

The White House and NIH did not immediately provide comments regarding the latest developments.

Fox News Digital’s Emma Colton contributed to this report.