Animal Rights Activists Attempt Break-In at Dane County Dog Breeding Facility

Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett reported that between 300 and 400 activists were involved, some reportedly wielding tools to cut through the facility's fencing. He emphasized that this was not a peaceful demonstration, stating in a Facebook video, "We have given warnings verbally, and have signs clearly identifying where they can peacefully protest, and they have ignored those signs and have come into the property and are actively causing a disturbance and chaos in our Dane County community."

Ridglan Farms is known as one of the largest breeders of beagles used for scientific and biomedical research. Despite the raid, no dogs were removed from the facility on that day. According to a court settlement reached last year, Ridglan Farms has until July 1 to sell or relocate its remaining dogs, after which its state breeding license will be void. Another section of the facility, responsible for direct research, retains a separate license.

This settlement followed an investigation by a special prosecutor initiated in January 2025, stemming from ongoing efforts by animal rights activists seeking to close what they consider one of the three largest beagle breeding operations for research in the United States.

Amy Van Aartsen, a Madison resident and member of the Marty Project—a nonprofit that opposes animal testing—reported that Wayne Hsiung, an established animal rights activist, was trying to serve court papers to Ridglan Farms during the raid. He was arrested shortly thereafter, with online records indicating that he was booked at approximately 9:45 a.m. on charges of conspiracy to commit burglary.

Van Aartsen expressed her discontent with the police response, noting that many demonstrators were subjected to tear gas and rubber bullets. The Dane County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a significant number of arrests took place.

In a statement following the incident, Ridglan Farms attributed any injuries sustained by participants or law enforcement to Hsiung, claiming he incited the violence against their research facility, which they assert is dedicated to enhancing pet health.