Animal testing is a cruel practice that causes immense suffering to countless animals each year, dogs and cats included. While we continue to push for a complete ban on animal testing, Colorado has taken a meaningful step forward in offering hope to some of its innocent victims.
Governor Jared Polis, joined by Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera and bill sponsors, signed SB25-085 – Health-Related Research Test Subjects into law, which creates a path to adoption for dogs and cats used in health-related research.
Sponsored by Senators Cathy Kipp and John Carson and Representatives Manny Rutinel and Amy Paschal, the new law requires research facilities using animals for medical or scientific purposes to first offer surviving dogs and cats to shelters or rescue groups for adoption before considering euthanasia. If the facility has its own adoption program, it must attempt rehoming internally before reaching out to external organizations.
Facilities must also submit an annual report to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, detailing:
• The total number of animals transferred to shelters or rescues
• The total number adopted through internal programs
• The name and address of each partnering shelter or rescue group
Although the suffering that these animals endure in laboratories cannot be undone, this law signifies important progress. It gives them the second chance that they deserve. While we remain committed to striving for a future free from animal testing, we celebrate a significant victory for those who cannot speak for themselves.
