Animal Testing Company to Pay $35 Million in Historic Resolution After Rescue of 4,000 Beagles

In a landmark decision, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that Inotiv, the parent company of Envigo RMS, will pay over $35 million to resolve a recent investigation. The investigation looked into severe violations of the Animal Welfare Act at Envigo’s Cumberland, Virginia facility. This marks the largest fine ever levied in an Animal Welfare Act case.

In May 2022, the DOJ executed a criminal search warrant at the facility with the assistance of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). During this operation, approximately 445 dogs and puppies in acute distress were rescued. The remaining nearly 4,000 beagles were later removed following a federal court order, which responded to the DOJ’s lawsuit detailing shocking violations including inhumane euthanasia practices and inadequate veterinary care. The USDA inspectors documented severe failures in handling, housing, feeding, watering, and sanitation.

Adam Parascandola, vice president of HSUS’s Animal Rescue Team, recalled the intense and emotional rescue operation. “For several long and hot days, our team helped assess the thousands of dogs in the facility as we assisted with the search warrant. We were able to bring approximately 445 dogs and puppies to safety that week, and in the weeks that followed, we held our breath hoping for a new beginning for the nearly 4,000 beagles remaining in the facility. It was an incredible relief and honor for all of us when the DOJ asked us to come back and rescue the remaining dogs, and we are grateful that those responsible for their suffering are being held accountable.”

These rescued beagles, which would have been destined for animal testing laboratories, have now found loving homes through HSUS’s network of over 120 shelter and rescue partners. Inotiv, which operates multiple breeding and testing facilities, remains under scrutiny for its animal welfare practices. A 2021 undercover investigation by HSUS at an Inotiv contract testing lab in Indiana revealed further cruelty, including dogs subjected to painful and fatal procedures.

The case highlights the ongoing need for better enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act. The bipartisan Better CARE for Animals Act aims to provide the DOJ with improved tools to address and prevent such abuses. HSUS and the Humane Society Legislative Fund are urging the public to Support this critical legislation to protect animals from similar fates in the future.

Speak Up Tee By Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection

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