Center for Humane Economy agrees to rehome 1,500 Ridglan dogs
Updated
Updated · The Wall Street Journal · May 7
Center for Humane Economy agrees to rehome 1,500 Ridglan dogs
6 articles · Updated · The Wall Street Journal · May 7
Big Ranch Dog Rescue joined the deal for an undisclosed sum at Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, where about 2,000 beagles had remained.
The agreement follows months of pressure from activist Wayne Hsiung, whose March raid removed 22 dogs and whose April protest drew more than 1,000 supporters.
Ridglan had already agreed to close its breeding operation in July to avoid possible cruelty charges, while lawsuits and scrutiny continue over police tactics and the farm's treatment of animals.
As science moves beyond animal testing, are illegal 'rescues' simply hastening an inevitable industry collapse?
A judge cited animal cruelty, yet the beagle lab was legal. Is the law itself the problem?
Coordinated Operation Saves 1,500 Beagles from Wisconsin Research Breeder
Overview
In May 2026, a major rescue operation began to relocate approximately 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms, a Wisconsin breeder that had committed over 300 animal cruelty violations. This rescue followed a legal settlement in October 2025, where Ridglan surrendered its state license, and a large protest by over 1,000 activists in April 2026. The operation involves veterinary care, foster recruitment, and community support, with shelters managing high adoption interest while focusing on the dogs' rehabilitation. Despite the rescue, Ridglan retains a federal license, leaving the fate of about 500 remaining dogs uncertain. The rescue is seen as a significant victory by animal welfare groups and highlights ongoing debates about animal testing.