Actor Joaquin Phoenix Narrates Undercover Video Investigation of Unethical Lab Animal Testing

International nonprofit Last Chance for Animals (“LCA”) has released an explosive undercover investigation that exposes the extreme abuse of laboratory animals at one of North America’s largest Contract Research Organizations.

During a four-month period in 2016, an LCA investigator worked undercover at International Toxicology Research (ITR), a Canadian based facility that is hired by pharmaceutical, beauty, and wellness companies worldwide to test the toxicity of their products. This unprecedented investigation captured numerous violations of animal welfare regulations on hidden camera, including the suffering of pigs, monkeys, and beagles, as narrated by actor and animal rights activist, Joaquin Phoenix. LCA’s expose is the largest ever conducted in a North American animal lab.

Scientific innovation continues to render the use of animals in laboratory testing, and medical trials unnecessary. LCA’s investigation revealed, animals used in medical tests are not only subject to the pain, neglect, and deprivation caused by medical procedures, but are often also the victims of unrelated abuse and mistreatment.

Visit: Last Chance for Animals' website to view the investigative video.

“For over three decades, LCA has been at the forefront of fighting against animal testing,” stated LCA Founder and President, Chris DeRose. “In recent years, scientific advancements have made tests involving animals obsolete thanks to the development of cheaper, more effective methods. So why then, can’t all stakeholders make significant efforts to move away from testing on animals when more cost effective and efficient alternatives currently exist?”

About Last Chance for Animals (LCA): LCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating animal exploitation through education, investigations, legislation, and public awareness campaigns. Since its formation in 1984, LCA has succeeded as one of the nation’s pioneer animal advocacy organizations. Working internationally, LCA’s Sam Simon Special Investigations Unit documents abuse in research labs, puppy mills, factory farms, and the entertainment industry, and works with prosecutors to enforce animal cruelty laws. LCA’s educational and public outreach programs have empowered the public to make positive changes for the animals in their own communities. For additional information, visit www.lcanimal.org.