Gainesville Residents Protested Animal Testing Practices
Owners of former research beagles gathered at the University of Florida to advocate against animal testing.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Veterinary Medicine
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Ten owners of former research beagles protested outside the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine on Sept. 26. The event coincided with the conclusion of the national March to Abolish Animal Testing.
Why it matters
Participants highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the use of animals in laboratory research and breeding. The event served as a local solidarity demonstration for the broader movement seeking to end animal testing nationwide.
The University of Florida experimented on nearly 800 dogs during fiscal year 2025 and purchased 19 cats for a 2024 study. Separately, one adopted research beagle named Peach incurred over $6,000 in veterinary bills following her May 2 release.
The players
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
This institution conducts academic research and provides veterinary clinical training.
Ridglan Farms
This former breeding facility held over 2,000 beagles for testing purposes prior to its closure.
Marshall BioResources
This company provides laboratory animals to research institutions for scientific and medical studies.
The details
Protesters in Gainesville displayed signs and showcased former test beagles to voice opposition to university breeding and testing protocols. This demonstration supported the March to Abolish Animal Testing, which involved 1,000 participants walking 200 miles across New York.
Timeline
The University of Florida conducted a study involving 19 cats in 2024.
Nearly 800 dogs were used in university experiments during fiscal year 2025.
Peach was released from Ridglan Farms on May 2.
The Gainesville solidarity event and national march concluded on Sept. 26.
Roadmap
The Gainesville demonstration follows the organizational model established by the March to Abolish Animal Testing to focus attention on laboratory animal sourcing. It reflects a growing trend of former research animal owners seeking to influence institutional policy at major universities.
Residents may see increased visibility of animal welfare activism near campus as organizations push for policy changes. Owners of rescued research animals in the area continue to face significant financial responsibilities for specialized veterinary care.
The takeaway
Adopting former research animals often requires a long-term commitment to specialized health care and rehabilitation. Public awareness efforts remain a primary tool for activists looking to challenge legacy laboratory breeding practices.
Further reading
Learn more about the current standards and debates within Veterinary Medicine.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Independent Florida Alligator.
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