Ontario Premier Doug Ford Announces Ban on Animal Testing

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced a ban on research testing involving dogs and cats, responding to growing concerns about animal welfare. The proposed legislation, which aims to prohibit all experiments on these animals, reflects a significant shift in policy regarding the treatment of pets in research settings.

The decision to implement this ban comes after whistleblowers alerted Animal Justice to troubling practices at the Lawson Research Institute affiliated with St. Joseph’s Health Care London. According to reports, dogs, primarily puppies, were subjected to cardiac research tests and subsequently euthanized for the extraction of their internal organs. These findings were highlighted by an investigative piece from the University of Toronto Investigative Journalism Bureau, raising serious ethical questions about the treatment of these animals.

In light of the revelations, Premier Ford stated that the upcoming legislation will be straightforward, declaring, “No more experimenting on cats and dogs because they are part of people’s families.” This clear stance resonates with a growing public sentiment that prioritizes the humane treatment of animals and reflects broader societal changes regarding animal rights.

Following discussions with provincial officials earlier this month, the Lawson Research Institute decided to halt all research involving dogs. The decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation surrounding animal testing in Canada, where advocates have long called for reforms to protect pets from research-related harm.

The discourse surrounding this issue has intensified due to the whistleblowers’ testimonies, which have prompted both public outrage and a deeper examination of the ethical implications of animal testing. Ford expressed gratitude to the whistleblowers for their courage in coming forward, acknowledging the critical role of transparency in fostering ethical research practices.

This announcement is expected to have significant implications for research institutions across Ontario and potentially influence similar policies in other regions. The legislation is poised to reshape how scientific research is conducted, prioritizing ethical standards and the welfare of animals involved in research.

As the situation develops, stakeholders from various sectors—including animal rights advocates, researchers, and policymakers—will be closely monitoring the implementation of this ban and its impact on future research initiatives. The province’s commitment to ending animal testing for dogs and cats signals a broader movement towards more humane research practices in Canada and beyond.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on August 25, 2025.