HELP PETS Act

This bill would stop federal money from going to colleges and universities that do painful research on dogs or cats. “Painful” means projects the USDA puts in pain categories D or E, like experiments or training that cause pain or distress.

The rule would start 180 days after it becomes law. There are exceptions for clinical veterinary research on naturally occurring illnesses or injuries in pets, and for physical exams, training, or studies involving service animals or military animals.

Key points

• Who is affected: Colleges and universities that receive federal funds.
• What changes: They would lose federal funding if they conduct or fund painful dog or cat research (USDA pain categories D or E).
• Exceptions: Clinical veterinary research; programs involving service or military animals.
• When: 180 days after the bill becomes law.