Marking One Year Since Animal Justice Exposed Cruel Animal Experiments at St. Joseph’s Hospital

Event by Animal Justice & Release the Dogs.

Join us as we gather to celebrate a historic victory for animals: Ontario’s ban on invasive medical experiments on dogs and cats!

One year ago, Animal Justice exposed the secret animal testing taking place at St. Joseph’s Hospital in London, Ontario. Thanks to the courage of two whistleblowers, the determination of advocates and community members, and the support of government leaders, that exposé led to a historic victory: Ontario banned invasive medical research on dogs and cats. St. Joseph’s ended its dog experiments, and the surviving dogs were released to a rescue organization.

But the fight isn’t over. While dogs and cats are now protected, pigs, rats, and mice continue to be used for research at St. Joseph’s. As we honour the dogs whose lives were lost and celebrate those who finally found freedom, we renew our commitment to the animals still waiting for theirs.

Join us as we celebrate this incredible milestone, remember those who paid the price, and urge St. Joseph’s to end animal testing once and for all and release the pigs, rats, and mice still in their lab.

What to Expect:
-A special message from the whistleblower(s)
-Speeches from animal protection organizations, community members and guardian(s) of former research dogs
-A flower memorial honouring the animals who were lost
-Community chalk messages
-A letter-writing station where you can advocate for stronger protections for animals
-Light music and opportunities to connect with your community

Calls to Action:
1. Asking St. Joseph’s Health Care London to publicly commit to ending all animal testing at the hospital and to transition to modern, animal-free alternatives.
2. Calling on the Government of Ontario to strengthen the legislation by closing the remaining loopholes that continue to allow harmful animal experimentation in the province.

While not required, you’re welcome to bring:
-Flowers to add to the memorial
-A poem, art or words to share with your community
-A handwritten note or message of hope
-Signs or banners supporting an end to animal testing
-Weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and water

Together, we’ll celebrate this historic victory, honour the victims and survivors, and continue the fight for every animal still waiting for freedom in a laboratory.

Note: Please check the Facebook event page for updates.