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Dogs at St. Joseph’s Hospital in London, Ontario, have been secretly used and euthanized in heart research studies, according to recent investigative reports and whistleblower accounts. The Lawson Research Institute at the hospital induces heart attacks in dogs and puppies, then kills them to extract their hearts for further study, with procedures lasting up to three hours. The hospital has kept the research program discreet, transporting dogs in covered crates with heavy security, and playing loud music to mask barking. Whistleblowers describe distressing conditions, with dogs caged for most of the day, lacking proper beds, and exhibiting signs of distress post-surgery. Public reaction in London and beyond has been one of anger and sadness, spurring protests and calls for more humane treatment, including rehoming the dogs after experiments rather than euthanasia. Animal rights organizations argue the research is both unnecessary and outdated, noting alternatives used internationally and challenging the hospital’s claims that such animal models are essential for cardiac imaging studies. The hospital defends its practices, stating the studies are ethically reviewed and necessary for medical advancement, while emphasizing animal welfare protocols and strict oversight. The controversy highlights a broader debate regarding the ethics, necessity, and transparency of animal testing in Canadian medical research, with some experts, advocacy groups, and members of the public demanding change in both local practice and national policies.