In This Issue:
June-- Pawsitively Pets-- 1
A Note From The Editor:
The story of the Beagles liberated from Ridglan Farms last month has become one of the most emotional and inspiring animal rescue stories in recent years. For decades, thousands of beautiful Beagles were bred at the Wisconsin commercial breeding facility and sold to laboratories for research and testing. Animal welfare advocates long argued that the dogs were living in poor conditions and enduring painful procedures, while managers of the facility maintained that it operated within research regulations. Over time, investigations, whistleblower testimony, and growing public awareness brought national attention to the dogs’ plight.
Beagles are commonly used in laboratory testing because of their small size and famously gentle, trusting personalities. That heartbreaking reality became a powerful rallying point for activists and rescue organizations across the country. Reports described dogs who had spent their entire lives inside cages, never feeling a loving touch, grass beneath their paws, or living in a family home. Animal advocates organized protests, rescue efforts, petitions, and legal actions in an effort to save them. Some were even arrested at those protests; all agreed it was truly worth it.
The turning point came in 2026, when tireless rescue groups negotiated an agreement to remove approximately 1,500 Beagles from the facility and place them into rehabilitation programs and loving homes. Rescue partners across the United States joined together to transport, medically treat, foster, and eventually adopt out the dogs. Dozens of heartwarming videos appeared on social media, showing the Beagles, despite years of confinement and not being socialized, quickly exhibiting affection and trust toward their rescuers. Volunteers described emotional moments, as wary, frightened dogs cautiously stepped onto grass or climbed into humans ' laps for comfort for the very first time.
The liberation of the Ridglan Beagles touched animal lovers everywhere because it represents hope, compassion, and the power of persistence. Thousands of ordinary people donated money, volunteered time, shared information online, and advocated for humane treatment of animals. The story also sparked wider conversations about animal testing and ethical research practices. Concerns continue about the 500 or so Beagles that are still at Ridglan, but the facility has agreed to stop breeding as of July 1, 2026. Today, many of the former Ridglan Beagles are beginning new lives filled with soft beds, sunshine, toys, kindness, and families who adore them. After years of confinement, pain, and isolation, these sweet dogs are finally discovering what it means to simply be loved and have a place to call home.
- Karyn Stratton
In This Issue:
Pet Calendar of Events........................................... page 2 Upcoming Pet Events............................................. page 3 Around the Hydrant: News You Can Use............. page 4 What To Do If You Find A Kitten......................... page 4 The Friendliest Cats In The World........................ page 5 Breed All About It- The Calico Cat...................... page 6 Health Highlights- Make Your Yard Pet-Safe...... page 7 Cute & Crazy Critters............................................. page 8 Adoption: A Loving Option.................................. pages 10, 11 Pawsitively Delicious.............................................. page 12 Ask The Groomer- To Shave Or Not To Shave.... page 13 Win A Cat Wand Toy & Tasty Treats..................... page 13 Wallet ID Form For Pets......................................... page 14 Subscriptions- Let Us Fetch Your Next Copy....... page 15
On our cover: " Cassie "
Thanks to
Akshay Anil of Kerala, India for providing us with her photo!
June-- Pawsitively Pets-- 1