Beagles Rescued from Wisconsin Facility Learn a New Life

Recently rescued beagles from Wisconsin’s Ridglan Farms are learning what it means to live as pets. This marks a significant first for many of these animals, who previously lived in a breeding facility supplying laboratory research subjects.

For the first time, hundreds of these beagles are now experiencing the joys of grass, stairs, toys, and affection in their new homes. Co-founder of Paws of War, Robert Misseri, explained, “They right now don’t even know they’re dogs.”

“They come in from a very, very difficult environment but, as we transition them to the families, as we’ve seen with the adopters, they are coming around,” Misseri stated during an interview on “My View with Lara Trump.”

Paws of War helps train rescue dogs to assist U.S. military veterans with emotional challenges. Misseri’s team took in 10 beagles after the state flagged animal welfare violations at Ridglan Farms, sparking a rescue effort praised as a “major win for animal welfare” by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Health and Human Services Secretary.

Transitioning to life outside the facility is daunting for these dogs. Activities like walking on grass, climbing stairs, and human interaction are all new experiences. Misseri shared, “When you see them and they’re shut down, that’s how they live. They lived like that.”

The organization behind their rescue plays a crucial role in this transition. Director of Adoptions Jodie Cohen highlighted the process of matching veterans and first responders with dogs and teaching basic pet skills. “They’ve never been walked on leashes, so we have to carry them out,” Cohen shared. Dogs learn to go potty and keep clean as they ready for adoption.

Once adopted, the dogs and their new owners can attend free group obedience training. The program not only equips them with supplies but also fosters long-lasting relationships. According to Cohen, “It’s not only about adopting the dog, but it’s making relationships, and that’s why our program is so different.”

Both the beagles and their new families are expected to gain confidence and heal from previous traumas. Misseri commented, “The lives are being changed on both ends of the leash.” The work of Paws of War continues, driven by the belief in positive change through their efforts.

Taylor Penley contributed as an associate editor with Fox News.