Wendy Turner Webster with a rescued laboratory beagle.

Campaign aims for mandatory release of millions of lab animals who suffer unnecessary deaths

World Day for Animals in Laboratories is an international event taking place today (April 24), as part of a campaign by the British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection (BUAV).

BUAV's most recent investigation at MSD Animal Health revealed that healthy adult female beagles used for breeding purposes were "routinely" euthanised once their puppies were taken away, rather than being rehomed.

Some of the puppies were also considered to be surplus and killed, BUAV says. An undercover investigator was able to secure the release of three dogs that would otherwise have been killed. The animals are now in loving homes and enjoying their new lives, according to the organisation.

Wendy Turner Webster, a journalist and animal advocate, met with the BUAV and five month old puppy Oliver, who was released from MSD.

She said: "Oliver is a beautiful, healthy and vibrant dog and it is devastating to think that his mother and six other siblings were all killed.

"I join the BUAV call to stop the killing of those animals in laboratories who could be released into secure and loving homes. I encourage others to find out more and support the BUAV campaign on this World Day for Animals in Laboratories."

The BUAV launched its Our Best Friends campaign in July 2013 to end the use of cats and dogs in research. The campaign has received widespread support from celebrities such as Ricky Gervais, Miranda Richardson and Paul O'Grady.

Image courtesy of BUAV