Delaware passes bill to give research animals a second chance

In the first state, a newly passed bill could give research animals a second chance at life. 

Senate Bill 101 will allow cats and dogs in research labs to be put up for adoption.

Every year, over 100 million animals are used for research. Just in Delaware, 82 cats and 85 dogs were used in 2015.

According to the Rescue and Freedom Project, beagles are especially common in research facilities.  We're told it's because of their docile demeanor. 

Walt Fenstermacher, the Director for Brandywine Valley SPCA says, "The research facilities would actually be able to partner with shelters and rescue groups. If they are receiving public funds, the facility will need to work with a local organization to be able to place animals up for adoption after they've been retired."

Before this bill came into play, some cats and dogs in research labs were put down. After digging for solutions, this bill will now bring some life back to Delaware.

"It's hard to say without being partners with those organizations why those animals may be euthanized after their testing but we believe that most animals that are healthy are able to be put up for adoptions," Fenstermacher tells us. 

Once the bill becomes law, research facilities can partner with animal shelters just like Brandywine Valley SPCA.

And animal shelters have one goal to find each and every single pet a family, making it the ultimate treat for our furry friends.

SB 101 now goes to Governor Carney for his signature. If the bill becomes law, Delaware will be the eighth state to legally allow the adoption of research dogs and cats.