In a victory for animal welfare, PETA successfully pressured Texas A&M University (TAMU) to shut down its controversial canine muscular dystrophy lab and breeding program, where dogs were bred and experimented on in the name of research. But what should have been a happy ending for the surviving dogs has instead become a continued struggle for their freedom. Despite assurances that healthy dogs would be released for adoption, TAMU has gone back on its word, leaving nine dogs trapped in a veterinary school lab on campus.
The dogs—Barbara, Mendel, Elvira, Maple, Scrump, Jigglypuff, Kahlua, Juniper, and Melania—were all promised a chance at a new life in loving homes. However, instead of fulfilling this promise, TAMU quietly transferred the dogs to another lab, prolonging their confinement and denying them the fresh start they deserve. These dogs are healthy, adoptable, and have already endured years of suffering in the now-defunct research program. Keeping them in captivity serves no purpose other than to deny them the happiness that was promised.
PETA and animal rights advocates are not staying silent. The organization has called out TAMU for breaking its commitment and is demanding the immediate release of the dogs to reputable adoption agencies. Supporters argue that the university’s actions are not only unethical but also a breach of trust. When the lab shut down, the expectation was that the animals who survived the ordeal would finally get a second chance. Instead, TAMU has chosen to keep them confined, treating them as property rather than sentient beings deserving of compassion.
These nine dogs represent more than just victims of the broken promise—they symbolize a larger issue of accountability in the treatment of animals in research. Barbara, Mendel, Elvira, Maple, Scrump, Jigglypuff, Kahlua, Juniper, and Melania have names, personalities, and the potential to thrive in loving homes. They are not just statistics, and their stories highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and advocacy in the fight for animal rights.
PETA is calling on animal lovers to take action by sending a text message to demand that TAMU release the dogs for adoption. Every voice matters, and together, advocates can apply the pressure needed to hold TAMU accountable.
These dogs have already endured so much pain and suffering. They deserve to spend the rest of their lives in peace and happiness, surrounded by love. It’s time for TAMU to honor its promise and give these animals the futures they deserve.
