Summary: On Saturday, approximately 1,000 animal welfare activists attempted to enter the Ridglan Farms beagle breeding and research facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. Law enforcement officers used pepper spray and rubber bullets to prevent entry, resulting in multiple arrests. The incident was the second major protest at the facility in two months. Separately, rescue organizations later negotiated the purchase of the facility's beagles and began relocating them to new homes.
Saturday Protest Incident
Timeline and Actions
On Saturday, approximately 1,000 activists attempted to enter the Ridglan Farms facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, located about 25 miles southwest of Madison. The activist group, the Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs, had publicized plans for an action on Sunday but began their operation a day earlier.
According to law enforcement reports, protesters attempted to overcome barricades including a manure-filled trench, hay bales, and a barbed-wire fence. Some protesters breached an outer fence but did not enter the main facility buildings. The facility reportedly houses an estimated 2,000 beagles used for breeding and biomedical research.
A person who drove a pickup truck through the facility's front gate was arrested.
Law Enforcement Response
The Dane County Sheriff's Office reported that 300 to 400 protesters were "violently trying to break into the property" and assaulting officers. Sheriff Kalvin Barrett stated in a video that protesters ignored designated protest areas and blocked roads, preventing emergency vehicle access. He characterized the event as "not a peaceful protest."
Law enforcement used pepper spray and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. The group's leader, Wayne Hsiung, was arrested and held on a tentative felony charge of conspiracy to commit burglary. A significant number of other protesters were also arrested; reports indicate approximately 25 arrests were confirmed, though processing continued through the afternoon.
Statements from Participants and Authorities
"We're pleased with the group's cooperation today, and their willingness to remain peaceful, while still sending their message of concern for the dogs at Ridglan Farms." — Sheriff Kalvin Barrett
"No one should be assaulted for giving aid to a dog, even if damage to property is part of that rescue effort." — Wayne Hsiung, from jail, accusing authorities of using excessive force.
"I just feel defeated." — Activist Julie Vrzeski, after several hours passed without any dogs being seized.
Subsequent Activity
Following the incident at the facility, activists moved to protest outside the jail in downtown Madison later on Saturday. On Sunday, approximately 200 people assembled outside the farm for about two hours before dispersing peacefully.
Previous Protest Incident (March)
In March, protesters entered the facility and removed 30 dogs. The Dane County Sheriff's Office referred charges including burglary and trespassing against 62 people related to that incident. Reports indicate 27 people were arrested.
Legal and Regulatory Context
October Agreement
In October, Ridglan Farms agreed to surrender its state breeding license effective July 1 as part of a deal to avoid prosecution on animal mistreatment charges. The company has denied mistreating animals. A special prosecutor found that eye procedures conducted at the facility violated state veterinary standards.
Company Statement
On its website, Ridglan Farms states that "no credible evidence of animal abuse, cruelty, mistreatment or neglect at Ridglan Farms has ever been presented or substantiated."
Federal Lawsuit
A federal lawsuit has been filed alleging that police used unnecessary force during the April protest.
Dog Relocation and Adoption
Purchase Agreement
Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for a Humane Economy negotiated a confidential agreement to purchase the 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms for an undisclosed price. The rescue group stated it was not connected to the protests.
Removal Process
The first 300 dogs were taken on Friday, with more to be removed over the next week. The dogs are being vaccinated, microchipped, spayed or neutered, and prepared for transport.
Distribution Plan
- Big Dog Ranch Rescue will handle approximately 1,000 dogs.
- The Center for a Humane Economy will handle the remaining 500 dogs.
Adoption Response
Over 700 adoption applications have been received. Lauree Simmons, president of Big Dog Ranch Rescue, stated: "The younger dogs will adjust quicker, and the older dogs will take time. A lot of them are more willing to accept love and want to be with people."
Background on Beagles in Research
According to Simmons, beagles are the most common breed used for animal testing due to their size and temperament.