University of Forestry in Bulgaria suspends animal experiments in two key disciplines

Sofia, September 9, 2024

From the new academic year, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the Forestry University (UF) stops the use of laboratory animals in two of its disciplines – physiology and pathophysiology. On September 9, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Veterinary Faculty of UF and Doctors Against Animal Experiments (Germany), the International Network for Humane Education (InterNICHE) and the Bulgarian animal protection NGO Campaigns and Activism for Animals in the Industry (CAAI).

After the signing of this contract, annually about 500 animals, among which frogs, mice, rats and rabbits, will not be harmed or killed for the purpose of education. This important decision reflects the institution’s commitment to the advancement of veterinary science while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare and protection.

Thanks to the cooperation between UF and animal protection organizations, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine will receive modern computer equipment and specialized software programs. They will help deepen the knowledge of students and give them a modern interactive approach.

There will be another introduction in the curriculum of the Veterinary Faculty of UF. Future veterinary specialists will also be able to practice on Critical Care Jerry – emergency room veterinary training manikin. It can simulate 14 types of pathological breathing and heart problems in real dogs. Jerry provides students with the unique opportunity to practice diagnosing these conditions that in real life would take up to 10 years of experience to recognize. In addition, other routine procedures such as taking a pulse, drawing blood, bandaging, finding fractures, etc., can also be performed on the simulator.

“We are extremely glad that the Veterinary Faculty of UF has decided to implement innovative approaches without the use of animals as part of its training. We thank the dean of the faculty, Prof. Krasimira Genova, and the Rector of UF, Assoc. Prof. Hristo Mihailov, for signing the contract for joint cooperation. This will save the lives of 500 animals every year.
Veterinary science exists to improve the lives of animals, and this decision is further confirmation of that. We hope that more universities at home and abroad will follow the example of the University of Forestry and introduce ethical and modern solutions in their curricula”, says Vladimir Nguyen, representative of the CAAI.

END

Contacts and additional information:
Vladimir Nguyen (Representative of CAAI)

0895 93 74 20