Great news for animals! Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine has announced the discontinuation of its terminal surgical teaching labs, sparing horses, goats, and sheep from being killed for veterinary training.

In March 2026, following intense public outcry, Washington State University (WSU) canceled an elective surgical laboratory that would have ended the lives of eight healthy horses. Our alert remains open, calling for the eight horses, who were originally destined for the laboratory, to be released from USDA custody and sent to a true sanctuary where they can live out their lives in peace. While this was an important victory, approximately 60 goats were still scheduled to undergo terminal surgeries during the spring 2027 semester.

Now, the goats and sheep have been spared, too! In October, WSU announced the discontinuation of its elective large animal terminal surgery course, ending these deadly teaching practices.

Terminal teaching labs involve students performing surgical procedures on anesthetized animals who are then killed rather than allowed to recover. Yet these procedures are unnecessary for quality veterinary education. Many veterinary schools have already replaced them with humane alternatives, including advanced simulation technology, clinical rotations, and supervised surgeries that provide needed veterinary care to animals in the community.

These alternatives allow students to develop essential surgical skills while honoring the fundamental purpose of veterinary medicine: to heal animals, relieve suffering, and save lives.

We are especially grateful to WSU veterinary student Larrea Cottingham, who helped bring these cruel practices to light, and to Our Honor, PETA, and Beagle Freedom Project for their dedicated advocacy and efforts to mobilize public opposition. We also thank the veterinary students, alumni, animal advocates, and supporters who spoke up against these practices and helped pressure WSU to make this compassionate decision.

This victory proves that veterinary education can advance without sacrificing healthy animals. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible!