Complaint targets U of Washington for Rabbit's Fractured Pelvis

The University of Washington lab should be heavily fined - $300,000, said Stop Animal Exploitation Now (SAEN), a national research watchdog organization, which uncovered the death & negligence, has filed a federal complaint with the USDA, which oversees research laboratories.

SAEN said the records reveal that a rabbit was discovered to have a fractured pelvis within 24 hours of an initial acclimation procedure for a project which studies chewing. Additionally, 30 other rabbits were denied adequate post-surgical pain relief for a period of 10 months.

SAEN has called for a USDA investigation, citations for improper animal handling, inadequate veterinary care, failure to follow experimental protocol, and unqualified personnel. Collectively these infractions, if applied to all animals, could result in a fine in excess of $300,000.

The USDA has previously fined the UW $10,893 for animal deaths.

“The University of Washington has again demonstrated a clear pattern of incompetence that has killed one animal and potentially caused severe suffering to others," said Michael A. Budkie, A.H.T., Executive Director, SAEN. "This incompetent lab deserves the maximum penalty allowable under the law."

The USDA report and SAEN's Official Complaints are available upon request from SAEN.

February 5, 2014
http://www.all-creatures.org/saen/press-20140205.html