Every year, millions of animals--including cats, pigs, turtles, and frogs--are dissected in primary schools, middle schools, and high schools and then discarded, many after suffering and dying for nothing more than to satisfy the demand for biological “specimens.”
As the "study of life", biology should foster respect and compassion for animals. Yet dissection encourages neither; animal life is devalued and treated as expendable.
However, more and more students prefer to learn anatomy and physiology using humane alternatives such as computer-based programs, 3-D models, and videos, which are also less expensive to use. Educational research shows that students using humane alternatives learn as well or better than students using animals.
Humane Society Youth's Humane Education Loan Program (HELP), Dissection Campaign Packet and other resources can supply students with the guidance and materials they need to create a humane biology classroom at their school.
News & Events
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May 18, 2009
The HSUS Urges Conn. Senators to Allow Students to Opt Out of Animal Dissection
The HSUS urges Connecticut state senators to vote "yes" on House Bill 6565 to allow students to choose alternatives to animal dissection.
Our Victories
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March 5, 2010
HSVMA Applauds Michigan State for Ending Terminal Surgeries on Dogs
The Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association applauds Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s decision to eliminate “terminal surgeries” on dogs.
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February 4, 2010
The HSUS Applauds Botox Manufacturer Allergan for Steps to Replace Controversial Animal Test
The HSUS applauds the Allergan Corporation for announcing its progress toward replacing a controversial animal test used in manufacturing its flagship product Botox Cosmetic, the popular anti-wrinkle treatment.
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January 14, 2010
Victory in Battle Over Monkey Breeding Facility Could be Temporary
Plans to build a monkey-breeding facility in Guayama, Puerto Rico have been suspended, but the victory could be fleeting.
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June 4, 2009
The HSUS, HSLF Applaud EPA's New Non-Animal Eye Irritation Labeling
Rabbits in U.S. laboratories will be spared having "germ-killing" antimicrobial cleaning products dripped in their eyes thanks to a new program that does not use animals to test and label these products for their eye irritancy potential.









