(KSHB) The University of Missouri acknowledges its researchers took part in a medical study that included wounding six beagle puppies before they were all euthanized.

The study was published in the medical journal Veterinary Ophthalmology on April 7.

It says six healthy, female beagle puppies (9-12 months) were wounded in their left corneas; three were then given an experimental drug and the other three received the control product without the acid.

The result of the study concluded the topical drug “did not accelerate corneal wound healing.” ‘Optimend Corneal Repair Drops’ is a product currently on the market for use only by veterinarians.

The Beagle Freedom Project learned of the tests several months ago.

“We identified 179 dogs and cats at Mizzou used by the med school, for research purposes,” said Daniel Kolde, attorney for Beagle Freedom Project.

Beagle Freedom Project’s mission is to adopt beagles from universities and institutions after they have been through medical testing. They requested public records from the animals under testing at Mizzou last year under the Sunshine Law but were met with a large bill.

“They wouldn’t give us any records until we gave them $82,222 and some change,” said Kolde.

Beagle Freedom Project then sued the university.

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