Millions in Funding Redirected, OSU Vet School Axes Euthanasia

OSU veterinary school announced Apr. 20 that animals will no longer be euthanized in teaching labs. The announcement came just weeks after the wife of T. Boone Pickens announced she would redirect a hefty contribution elsewhere within the university because of the controversial practices.

Controversy about the veterinary school performing terminal surgeries, or euthanizing animals after performing procedures on them, arose after Madeleine Pickens said she planned to move her $5 million donation from school because she did not agree with such practices.

“This is a win-win situation that continues to provide our students the training they need, addresses animal welfare issues, and offers a beneficial service to the community,” OSU President Burns Hargis said in a written statement.

Until now, dogs used in the lab were euthanized after a second surgery was performed on them. Seventy-six dogs were euthanized last year at the veterinary school, according to reports.

Pickens reportedly learned of the malpractices within the veterinary school after an anonymous student called directly to her office. Sources tell CurrentlyOK that Pickens called the student back directly to learn more of the policies of the school before launching a full investigation.

In the fall semester, the OSU veterinary school will work with animal shelters in Oklahoma.

Students will perform spays and neuters on the animals, which will then return to the shelters to be adopted, university representatives say.

hunter@currentlyok.com