10 beagles desperately seeking caring homes - refugees from U of Guelph Vstep

The Animal Alliance of Canada recently announced the desperate need for individual homes for 10 beagles and 4 cats from the University of Guelph V-step program.

The Vstep program trains vets from other countries who wish to qualify here in Canada.  The vets "practice" spay/neuter on beagles raised in laboratories at the University. These sweet, gentle dogs have never been (in most instances) outside, on a leash, have lived their short lives in cages, are "practiced" on - often by inexperienced practioners and then are summarily euthanized. The Animal Alliance has been fighting with the University of Guelph for 10 years to have the dogs released to rescue groups on being spayed or neutered.  To this point they have been unsuccessful.  Apparently only 1 supervisor oversees 10 students (for scenarios which for the safety of the animal should be one on one).

The University has JUST agreed to release 4 cats and 10 beagles but ONLY to individuals not to rescue or humane groups (even those willing to take them on). These lovely sweet-tempered beagles will most definitely provide a challenge (but would be well worth the effort) - they have not been socialized, will have to be housetrained, introduced gently to the outside world, will need LOTS of one on one to learn how to trust human beings and how to actually BE a dog.

They DESERVE a chance.

Pressure must be brought on the University of Guelph to stop this horrific practice.  Many other veterinary collegs use cadavers - and there are also groups willing to form a partnership where experienced vets could provide (for an example) shelter dogs that need spaying or neutering with ONE on ONE supervision.  I also find it a sad comment on the University's mandate to teach aspiring vets compassion for the aniamls they treat.  Animals, like people, need caretakers and individuals with a holistic approach - one based on compassion and caring as well as science.

Please contact Liz of Animal Alliance for further details:

416-462-9541 ext: 23

liz@animalalliance.ca