USDA Finds Sick Animals at NC Research Lab

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — A federal inspection found sick animals and unsanitary conditions at a North Carolina lab that was accused last month of mistreating animals.

A report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture said the Sept. 14 inspection found numerous dogs with dental, skin and eye ailments.

The agency investigated the Corapeake-based Professional Laboratory and Research Services Inc. after the animal-rights group PETA released a video shot at the lab.

PETA said the footage showed workers cruelly treating animals at the lab.

The company has halted its research and surrendered all of its more than 200 animal subjects.

The company says the inspection's findings are common in animal labs, and don't show any neglect or abuse.