‘They know they’re safe’: beagles saved from US research facility after protests – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Blue Mounds, Wisconsin — Animal rescue organizations struck a pivotal deal this week to purchase nearly 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms, a major breeding and research operation that drew national scrutiny after violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement.[1][2] The first batch of around 300 dogs left the facility last Friday, quickly warming to their rescuers in ways that underscored the urgency of the effort.[1] This development follows a decade of activism targeting the site, where the dogs faced potential sale to other labs.
Protests Escalate at Long-Contested Facility
Ridglan Farms, located about 25 miles southwest of Madison, has bred beagles for scientific research for years, housing roughly 2,000 of the dogs at its federally licensed site.[2] Animal rights groups raised alarms as early as 2017 with a break-in that exposed alleged poor conditions, followed by a 2025 state investigation.[3] Prosecutors cited violations in eye procedures on the animals, prompting the facility in October 2025 to agree to surrender its state breeding license effective July 1, 2026, though it denied any mistreatment.[1]
Tensions peaked this spring. In March, activists breached the perimeter and removed between 22 and 30 beagles, resulting in referrals for charges against 63 individuals.[3][1] The largest confrontation unfolded on April 18, when 300 to 1,000 protesters attempted to storm the grounds. Law enforcement responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and pepper spray, leading to 25 to 29 arrests; five now face felony burglary charges, including activist leader Wayne Hsiung.[2][3] Demonstrations spilled over to the state Capitol, amplifying calls to end the dogs’ use in testing.
Rescue Groups Seal Game-Changing Agreement
Big Dog Ranch Rescue, the nation’s largest cage-free no-kill dog operation based in Florida, partnered with the Center for a Humane Economy to buy the 1,500 beagles through a confidential agreement valued under $1 million.[2][3] Negotiations predated the recent unrest by months, and the rescuers emphasized their independent, legal approach. The facility retains several hundred dogs, with talks ongoing for their future.[1]
Wayne Pacelle, president of the Center for a Humane Economy, hailed the move as an "exit ramp" from research life for the animals. Big Dog Ranch plans to handle 1,000 through its network in Florida and Alabama, while partners manage the rest. Dane County Humane Society will stage 500 locally, vaccinating and treating them before placements.[3] Already, more than 700 adoption applications have poured in nationwide.
Dogs Display Trust in Earliest Encounters
Rescuers noted the beagles’ gentle nature from the outset. Within an hour of removal, the dogs approached handlers, sought pets, and even climbed into laps. Lauree Simmons, president and founder of Big Dog Ranch Rescue, observed their rapid shift.
“They started within an hour or so coming up to us, wanting attention. Some crawled in people’s laps. Every single one of them are super sweet,” Simmons said. “I think they are loving the attention. I just know they know they’re safe.”[1]
Beagles’ forgiving temperament makes them ideal for labs but also quick to rebound, Simmons explained. Younger ones adapt fastest, while older dogs may require more time to embrace affection. The group credited activists indirectly: "What they did was put the message out," Simmons noted, though her team pursued a lawful path.[2]
Adjustment and Adoptions on the Horizon
At a Wisconsin staging site equipped with play yards, the beagles undergo medical exams, microchipping, spaying or neutering, and vaccinations. Staff focus on essentials like leash walking and housebreaking, skills absent from their prior lives.[1] Transport to partner shelters began swiftly, with flights carrying initial groups to Florida.
- About 50 dogs at Dane County Humane Society could enter adoption pools soon.
- Over 1,000 head to out-of-state homes via vetted rescues.
- All receive ongoing support; returns to Big Dog Ranch remain an option if needed.[2]
Simmons stressed patience: "These dogs are going to need time… They will need patience. They will learn kindness and what it means to be loved."[3] Ridglan Farms called the protesters a "violent mob" but has stayed silent on the sale.[1]
The agreement closes a turbulent chapter at Ridglan Farms, where breeding ends soon. For the beagles, it opens doors to homes where their trusting spirits can thrive without restraint.
As a little kid, I fell in love with nature, wildlife, and animals. Living in the USA, South Africa, Italy, China and Germany gave me the opportunity to discover the world's Wildlife. My favorite animals are Mountain Gorillas, Siberian Tigers, and Great White Sharks.
I'm a certified PADI Open Water Diver, went to Everest Base Camp and Trekked Gorillas in Uganda. I hold a Master of Science in Economics and Finance.
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