Massive Rescue Secures 1,500 Beagles from Wisconsin Research Farm

Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for a Humane Economy signed a deal to buy 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms, a research facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. The dogs will be sent to rescue sites in Florida and Alabama for adoption.

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protestersUsNews and World Report

Activists have campaigned to have the 2,000 beagles at Ridglan Farms adopted. A prosecutor found the farm performed eye procedures violating veterinary standards, prompting Ridglan in October to surrender its license July 1. Lauree Simmons, president of Big Dog Ranch Rescue, leads effort; Center for a Humane Economy partners with rescue. Dane County Sheriff’s Department responded to protest.

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

• March 2026 – Activists removed 30 beagles; October – Ridglan agreed to surrender its license effective July 1.

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

• April 18 2026 – 1,000 activists attempted entry; police deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, pepper spray, arresting 29 and charging five with burglary.

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• April 20 2026 – Groups announced purchasing 1,500 beagles.

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

Ridglan Farms houses 2,000 beagles; 1,500 are purchased, 30 removed in the March break-in. 1,000 activists gathered on April 18. Police arrested 29, five facing burglary charges and 63 referred for prosecution. The fate of remaining 500 dogs is undisclosed.

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

Simmons called the acquisition “a big win” and said dogs will receive veterinary care before adoption. Ridglan Farms called protesters a “violent mob” that launched “an assault on a licensed research facility.” Dane County Sheriff’s Department confirmed using tear gas, rubber bullets and pepper spray, reported arrests and charges.

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

Ridglan’s label of activists as a violent mob underscores opposition to protest tactics. Activists have filed a lawsuit alleging unnecessary police force during the April clash.

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Purchase agreement does not disclose price or exact number of beagles remaining at Ridglan after the 1,500 are removed, leaving the fate of remaining dogs unclear.

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• “It's a very big win and I am ecstatic to have these dogs out and get them into loving homes,” — Lauree Simmons, President, Big Dog Ranch Rescue

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

• “These dogs need to learn to walk on a leash,” — Lauree Simmons

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

• “What we did, we wanted to do legally and in the best way and for the best outcome of these dogs for the future.” — Lauree Simmons

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

• “Ridglan has said those who tried to break in were a “violent mob” who launched “an assault on a federally licensed research facility.” — Ridglan Farms statement

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters

1,500 beagles will be sent to rescue facilities for screening and adoption. Remaining dogs at Ridglan will be subject to July 1 licensing change. Legal actions from the protest and federal lawsuit against police conduct are ongoing.

Animal rescue group says it bought 1,500 beagles from Wisconsin facility targeted by protesters