Over 1,500 Beagles to Be Adopted from Wisconsin Breeding Facility

Animal rescue organizations have secured the purchase of over 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms, a large breeding facility in Wisconsin that supplies dogs for scientific research. The agreement was made between Big Dog Ranch Rescue and The Center for a Humane Economy.

Not all dogs at Ridglan Farms are included in this arrangement. Wayne Pacelle, president of the Center for a Humane Economy, stated that the rescue groups are unsure how many dogs remain at the facility but are optimistic about acquiring the rest in the coming months. He expressed enthusiasm for future discussions with Ridglan Farms to help those dogs.

Ridglan Farms has faced scrutiny following multiple allegations of animal abuse. The facility, located approximately 30 minutes southwest of Madison in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, was the subject of a break-in by animal rights activists in 2017, who alleged mistreatment of animals. Last year, a Dane County judge appointed a special prosecutor to investigate further animal cruelty claims after establishing probable cause of violations of Wisconsin’s animal cruelty laws. Although the investigation concluded with a settlement avoiding prosecution for Ridglan Farms, it required the facility to surrender its state breeders' license by July 1, 2026.

Some activists believe this measure was insufficient. In March, a group of activists broke into the facility and rescued 22 beagles, which they later placed for adoption. Another raid attempt occurred on April 18, but activists were met with law enforcement using tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets. A lawsuit has since been filed against the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, alleging excessive force during the incident. Several individuals, including activist leader Wayne Hsiung, face burglary charges related to the earlier break-in.

Ridglan Farms has described the raids as violent assaults and maintains that its animals are well-cared for in a healthy environment.

As for the rescued beagles, many will be adopted in Wisconsin, while over 1,000 others will be transported to homes across various states. The Dane County Humane Society is among the organizations preparing to care for these animals, including providing vaccines and medical care for 500 of the dogs, with about 50 immediately available for adoption.

Lauree Simmons, president of Big Dog Ranch Rescue, assured that the beagles will be sent to reputable rescue organizations that will offer them care, including spaying and neutering. She emphasized the need for patience and support as these dogs adjust to new environments.

Earlier, Lara Trump, a board member of Big Dog Ranch Rescue, claimed that Ridglan Farms rejected a million-dollar offer from the rescue groups for the dogs. Simmons clarified that the amount paid was significantly less than one million, noting that financial support was crucial for ensuring the dogs' safety and preventing them from being sold for testing.