1,500 Beagles Rescued from Wisconsin Research Facility

The moment rescuers brought the first beagles out of Ridglan Farms in Wisconsin, something remarkable happened. Dogs who'd spent their lives confined to kennels immediately crawled into people's laps.

"They started within an hour or so coming up to us, wanting attention," said Lauree Simmons, president of Big Dog Ranch Rescue. "I just know they know they're safe."

Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for a Humane Economy negotiated a deal to purchase all 1,500 dogs from the breeding and research facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. The facility agreed to give up its state breeding license in October to avoid felony animal mistreatment charges after investigators found the farm was performing eye procedures that violated state veterinary standards.

The rescue began Friday with the first 300 dogs removed from the property. Over the next week, all remaining beagles will be transported to a staging area where they'll receive vaccinations, microchipping, and spay or neuter procedures before heading to partner shelters nationwide.

Big Dog Ranch Rescue has already received over 700 adoption applications for the 1,000 dogs they're placing. The organization is carefully screening potential families to ensure each beagle finds the right home.

Sunny's Take

Beagles are the most common breed used in animal testing because of their small size, gentle nature, and forgiving temperament. That same sweetness that made them vulnerable is now helping them adjust to freedom remarkably quickly.

"The younger dogs will adjust quicker, and the older dogs will take time," Simmons explained. "But a lot of them are more willing to accept love and want to be with people."

Some beagles will need extra patience as they learn what it means to be a family pet. Many have never been outside a kennel, never played with a toy, or experienced the simple joy of a walk around the neighborhood.

But rescuers say every single one of these dogs is "super sweet" and ready to give love to families across the country.

These 1,500 beagles are getting their second chance at life, and hundreds of families are lining up to give them the homes they've always deserved.