Our organisation is concerned that taking part in or observing live surgery practicals on animals who do not need the surgery (whether followed by humane killing or recovery) can lead to desensitisation and a lessening of respect for animal life. Our organisation is concerned about the negative impact on a student’s welfare when they are required to participate in unnecessary surgeries for a qualification. Students should not be required to perform or watch unnecessary live surgery practicals on animals. Students should be able to withdraw from watching or participating in unnecessary live surgeries without penalty, and acceptable and humane alternatives should be provided to allow them to meet the requirements of the course.

SPCA opposes the practice of performing surgeries on live animals in educational institutions for the purposes of teaching veterinary surgical techniques where the surgical intervention has no benefit to the animal.

SPCA recognises it is acceptable to for veterinary students to operate on live animals under appropriate supervision and where the surgery has a benefit for the animal.