Rescued Testing Facility Beagles are Coming to ECCHA – FAQ’s

1,500 Beagles from Ridglan Farms Are Being Released – They Need Our Community More Than Ever

A total of 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms are being released, and they need our community now more than ever.

A breeding and testing facility in Blue Mounds, WI, has agreed to release 1,500 of their 2,000 beagles this month to local shelters and rescues. These dogs are being placed with humane welfare organizations, primarily in the Midwest. Eau Claire Community Humane Association (ECCHA) is proud to assist by taking in 12 of these beagles.

In partnership with Wisconsin Federated Humane and Dane County Humane Society, ECCHA will pick up our 12 beagles on May 13. These dogs will require ongoing medical care, behavioral support, and time to adjust to being family pets for the first time. When they’re ready, they will need patient adopters who can show them what safety and love feel like for the first time in their lives.

At this stage, the beagles will not be available for viewing. We want to give them the time and space to adjust and decompress. Early visits could be overwhelming, so we ask that you respect their journey. For the latest updates on their progress, please visit our website and social media pages.

We are grateful for your interest in their stories and your willingness to help. Right now, the most important thing they need is time and patience. They will show us when they are ready for more. With your support, we are changing the lives of these dogs forever!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I help the beagles in your care?

• Donate toward their care on our website.
• Consider becoming a foster family—or adopt a dog already in our care.

How can I adopt one of the beagles?

• Read the Beagle Freedom Project’s survivor care guide and research adopting a former research animal online.
• Updates on availability and the adoption process will be shared on our website and social media channels.
• These beagles will need families who are patient and understanding, prepared for a slow adjustment period, fear reactions, housetraining challenges, and limited basic skills. With time, consistency, and compassion, they will become valued members of your family.

I want to volunteer specifically with the beagles. Can I?

• We are not using specific volunteers for the beagles only. If you want to volunteer at the shelter, you can apply on our website and attend volunteer orientation.

When can I visit the beagles?

• Visits are not allowed at this time. As the beagles become more socialized, they may eventually be placed on the adoptable floor. There is no set timeline, as we want to avoid causing them stress. Updates will be added to this blog as progress is made.

Is my home a good fit for one of the beagles?

• Typical beagle characteristics:
• Extremely affectionate, often kid-friendly, typically 20–30 lbs
• High exercise needs, playful and intelligent
• Very chatty and food-motivated
• Scent hounds by nature – they will sniff out everything!

Additional resources for prospective beagle adopters:

• fearfuldogs.com
• Rescuing a Puppy Mill Dog – Best Friends Animal Society
• Caring for Unsocialized, Fearful/Neglected Dogs – Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project