Michigan State University follows University of Michigan in ending lethal dog surgeries

Michigan State University announced it will end its use of lethal surgeries on dogs during practice surgeries conducted by students.

The Detroit Free Press reported the policy will put MSU's veterinarian school in line with most other vet schools across the country.

During the practice surgeries and euthanasia, dogs are completely anesthetized. But schools have been dropping the practice as they've said alternatives have become more acceptable for training students.

MSU will end the surgeries by the fall, the university said.

A little over a year ago, the University of Michigan announced it would stop using live dogs for training in the school of human medicine. Its Advanced Trauma and Life Support course could use simulated models and cadavers effectively, U-M said at the time.

Tina Reed covers health and the environment for AnnArbor.com. You can reach her at tinareed@annarbor.com, call her at 734-623-2535 or find her on Twitter @TreedinAA.