Rescue groups have reached a deal to secure the release of about 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms, a Wisconsin facility that breeds dogs for laboratory research.

The dogs will be transferred to shelters, where they’ll receive medical care before being placed for adoption. Big Dog Ranch Rescue will take in the 1,500 dogs, working alongside the Wisconsin Humane Society. The groups are paying a confidential sum to Ridglan Farms as part of the agreement.

The deal comes after years of criticism from animal welfare advocates and recent large-scale protests.

Earlier in April, around 1,000 activists tried to break into the facility to free the dogs, leading to clashes with police and multiple arrests. Activists have long accused the facility of poor living conditions and lack of oversight.

Ridglan Farms has bred beagles for scientific research for more than 60 years. While advocates are calling the agreement a major breakthrough, about 500 dogs remain at the facility with an uncertain future. The company has said it plans to stop breeding dogs by mid-2026 under a legal settlement.

fox6now.com