With the Environmental Protection Agency scaling back its research efforts, lab rats and zebra fish are in need of homes, prompting an adoption initiative for employees at their North Carolina facility.
E.P.A. Launches Adoption Program for Lab Animals as Research Cuts Loom
E.P.A. Launches Adoption Program for Lab Animals as Research Cuts Loom
Employees are encouraged to adopt lab rats and zebra fish amid the agency's plans to halt animal testing.
At the Environmental Protection Agency’s (E.P.A.) research campus in North Carolina, a new initiative invites employees to adopt lab rats or zebra fish as the agency prepares to shut down its animal testing programs. This initiative comes in the wake of significant budget cuts to government scientific research introduced during the Trump administration.
The adoption program is particularly focused on finding homes for animals that have been used for chemical toxicity testing. According to insider reports, staff members are now able to take these animals home as pets, in a move that aims to save lives while transitioning the agency’s research operations.
“Adopt love. Save a life,” read a promotional poster displayed on the research campus, illustrating the agency's commitment to animal welfare amidst these changes. The call to action includes a question, “Would you like to adopt?” which instantly resonates with employees who are passionate about animal care.
An email from Maureen R. Gwinn, acting assistant administrator of E.P.A.'s Office of Research and Development, confirmed that the adoption program has already begun accepting applications. However, adoptions are currently on hold as the agency finalizes the specific adoption criteria.
Currently, the E.P.A. manages a population of approximately 20,000 animals, predominantly consisting of fish and their larvae. Notably, two rabbits that were also part of this group have recently found homes, reflecting the agency's commitment to ensuring that all of its animals are cared for.
As the E.P.A. continues to grapple with its restructuring, the adoption program serves both as a response to the necessity of rehoming lab animals and as an opportunity for employees to make a difference in the lives of these creatures.
