MADISON, Wis. — Animal rescuers in Wisconsin announced on Thursday that they have made an important deal to rescue over 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms, a veterinary research facility. The agreement, noted by leaders from Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for a Humane Economy, is one of the largest coordinated rescue efforts of its kind.
Read More
Wayne Pacelle, president of the Center for a Humane Economy, confirmed that they have reached a formal accord with Ridglan Farms, which has bred beagles for scientific and medical research for nearly 60 years. The facility was facing $55,000 in fines due to over 300 reported violations.
Under the terms of the agreement, Big Dog Ranch Rescue will take in about 1,000 of the dogs, some of which will be housed in Florida and Alabama, while others will be placed through a network of over 50 partner rescue organizations across the country. The remaining approximately 500 beagles will be coordinated by the Center for a Humane Economy, with significant efforts based in Wisconsin.
Pacelle expressed excitement about providing these animals—who have lived in confinement—with new opportunities for freedom, stating that they will finally be able to experience outdoor environments and loving homes.
The Dane County Humane Society, along with partners such as the Beagle Freedom Project and the Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project, will assist in caring for and placing hundreds of the beagles. Lauree Simmons, president of Big Dog Ranch Rescue, emphasized the need for patience and support as the dogs adjust to new surroundings.
Currently, the dogs are not available for adoption as they require medical care and socialization before being placed in homes. Demand for the beagles is expected to be high, and Pacelle mentioned that there may not be enough dogs to meet the interest.
The Dane County Humane Society has set up an online interest form for potential adopters and will provide updates as the dogs become ready for adoption. While this effort focuses on rescuing these beagles, discussions about the remaining dogs at Ridglan Farms are ongoing, although no specific numbers were provided. Ridglan Farms has stated that the animals in their care are healthy and well cared for, and has not disclosed the number of dogs still remaining at the facility.