US Breeding Farm Accused of Abuse Investigated, Animal Welfare Groups Acquire 1500 Beagles for Rescue

Central News Agency

(Fort Lauderdale, Florida, May 3, Central News Agency) A laboratory dog breeding facility in Wisconsin, USA, sparked protests and clashes over animal welfare disputes. Now, over 1,500 beagles from the facility are gradually being sent to various shelters, preparing for subsequent adoption procedures and embarking on new lives.

The Associated Press reported today that Lauree Simmons, founder and president of the animal welfare group "Big Dog Ranch Rescue," stated: "The dogs started actively approaching us for petting in less than an hour, and some even climbed onto people's laps. Every single one is super gentle and cute... I think they enjoyed the attention and are sure they know they are safe."

These beagles came from Ridglan Farms, a well-known laboratory dog breeding facility in the United States. Although the operator repeatedly denied animal cruelty, a special prosecutor last year discovered that illegal eye surgeries were performed on dogs without anesthesia or postoperative painkillers. Ridglan Farms subsequently agreed to surrender its state-issued breeding license in July this year.

Several animal welfare groups have demonstrated twice this year, attempting to forcibly remove the beagles, leading to clashes with the police. Simmons said that beagles are the most commonly used breed for animal experiments due due to their smaller size and docile nature.

Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for a Humane Economy recently reached a confidential agreement to purchase these 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms at an undisclosed price.

Big Dog Ranch Rescue is collaborating with organizations across the United States to find new homes for 1,000 of these dogs, while the Center for a Humane Economy is responsible for placing the remaining beagles.

Simmons said that over 700 adoption applications have been received so far, but there is still a processing period before the dogs can go to their new homes, such as screening potential adopters, sending the dogs to shelters nationwide, and ensuring these beagles have completed house training.

The first batch of 300 beagles left the breeding facility on May 1, and the remaining dogs are expected to be moved out within a week. Ridglan Farms did not immediately respond to requests for comment. (Compiler: Chang Ming-hsuan) 1150504