PETA brings virtual reality animal testing simulator to Macon

The virtual reality experience aims to show what animals go through in laboratories and raise awareness about animal testing.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – peta2, an offshoot of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) aimed at reaching young people, according to their website, brought what they call an abduction simulator to Middle Georgia State University Wednesday. 

The experience used virtual reality to mimic what lab animals go through. Tour administrator Makayla Hooper says the goal is to show people that animals feel pain and fear, just like humans. 

“There is no separation beyond our perception, so we’re trying to build empathy for the animals that are being abused in these laboratories,” she said. “Cats, dogs, rats, mice, and we believe everyone deserves to live a life that is abuse free.”

According to PETA, studies show that 90% of all basic research most of which involves animals fails to lead to treatments for humans. That’s why the organization is pushing universities nationwide to invest in research relevant to humans through modern research and a roadmap to better science.