Nives Ilic, an animal rights activist residing in Ottawa, shares a touching narrative about her experience with a former research dog named Mack. Mack’s initial night in her care was one of tender closeness, with the small dog seeking comfort in her embrace. Having spent six years in a laboratory, Mack’s journey to a loving home was a profound one for both him and Nives.
Nives’ involvement in animal advocacy heightened after participating in a campaign with Animal Justice, which exposed distressing experiments on dogs at St. Joseph’s Hospital in London, Ont. The public outcry led to the closure of the dog lab in August 2025. Witnessing the suffering of these animals and the community’s efforts to protect them stirred a mix of emotions in Nives, propelling her to aid animals facing similar plight.
Approved as a foster parent by The Beagle Alliance, Nives embarked on a trip to London to pick up Mack, one of ten former research dogs rescued from a laboratory. Despite the undisclosed origins of Mack’s past testing, Nives signed an agreement acknowledging potential PTSD symptoms and fear-based behaviors in dogs like Mack. His adjustment to a new life was evident during the car ride home, marked by fear and uncertainty.
Contrary to Nives’ initial concerns of aggression, Mack displayed a remarkable desire for love and companionship, embracing each new experience with curiosity and tenderness. Unlike shelter dogs, Mack, having been a test subject, faced the world anew at almost seven years old, learning to navigate simple joys like sunlight and affection.
Loving Mack provided Nives with a profound realization of animal suffering beyond statistics. Each moment with Mack underscored the resilience and vulnerability of animals like him, urging Nives to advocate for their rights with renewed passion. Today, Mack thrives in his forever home, embodying the hope for a future where no animal endures suffering for scientific pursuits.