Around 4,000 beagles have been saved from animal testing, thanks to the Humane Society of the US (HSUS).
The animal welfare organization recently responded to a call from the US Department of Justice. It was asking for help with removing thousands of dogs from a breeding facility in Virginia. The facility, owned by research organization Envigo, was supplying animals to laboratories for testing.
The dogs were discovered earlier this year in overcrowded, “shocking” conditions.
HSUS reports that some nursing mothers were denied food, several puppies had died from the cold, and food was maggot-infested. Some animals were killed instead of being taken to the vet for simple treatments.
Earlier in July, after inspection reports exposed the facility, a judge ordered that the remaining 4,000 dogs be released.
A ‘feat of epic proportions’
HSUS is being supported by rescue organizations across the US as it attempts to find a new home for all of the animals.
John Ramer of Wyoming’s Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary told NPR that the rescue was “daunting.”
He added: “When I carry one dog out of a facility, I can tap it on the head and give it a hug and tell him that everything’s gonna be OK. But pulling 4,000 out … it’s an inconceivable number of dogs.”
HSUS notes that it is already difficult to find homes for dogs in the middle of summer. Shelters are usually over capacity. A blog post written by Sara Amundson, the president of the nonprofit’s legislative fund, states that the rescue will be a “feat of epic proportions.”
“We are ready to take on the challenge,” writes Amundson. “And we are grateful to our rescue and shelter partners network of local rescue groups and shelters in communities throughout the country—whose dedicated efforts will make it possible for these dogs to find loving homes.”
HSUS is currently campaigning for the FDA to end animal testing for good. You can get involved with its mission here.
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You know why they use Beagles for experimentation? Because these dogs are inherently good-natured. Really tragic if you ask me.
This story is misleading. PETA was actually the group that performed the undercover investigation in 2021 that led to this epic rescue effort. Can we please have someone correct this story to be fair and thorough?
https://investigations.peta.org/dog-beagle-breeding-mill-envigo/
Thank you for your comment James, there were multiple animal rights orgs that investigated, but this article is more about the actual rescue!
I wish every animal could be saved from this torture and abuse. It’s criminal! No animal belongs in a lab!
How do I get in touch with someone to adopt one of these rescued beagles?
Hi Kelly! A list of partners accepting animals into their adoption program will be available here as information is confirmed. All interested adopters will need to work with the local placement groups and follow their required application processes.
I would like to know how to adopt or foster one of these dogs.
Hi Stephanie! A list of partners accepting animals into their adoption program will be available here as information is confirmed. All interested adopters will need to work with the local placement groups and follow their required application processes.
People who are paying big bucks to go to “breeders” should do the right thing and adopt instead. Adopt one of these pup, in particular. I work in the “pet” insurance industry and get ill when I see medical records for French Bulldogs who have been imported from Europe.