Tori Jo Photography

06/07/2026

Throughout the Ridglan Farms beagle release effort, we’ve received lots of questions and recently a big one has been “How many beagles remain at Ridglan Farms?”

The honest answer is: nobody outside of Ridglan Farms knows.

The last confirmed count comes from USDA inspection records from late January, which documented 1,945 dogs on the breeding side and 156 dogs on the research side—a total of 2,101 beagles.

Since then:

• 1,500 dogs were released from the facility last month (including the 500 staged at DCHS with Center for Humane Economy, Beagle Freedom Project, Wisconsin Puppymill Project, and Wisconsin Federated Humane Societies, and 1,000 to Big Dog Ranch Rescue).

• An additional 135 beagles are scheduled to leave this week (of which 68 will pass through DCHS’s doors).

• We believe approximately 200 dogs or more may have been sold to a laboratory last month.

• 22 dogs were removed in mid-March.

But those figures alone do not tell us how many dogs remain. Puppies may have been born. Dogs may have died. Dogs may have been transferred elsewhere.

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) inspected the facility last month but did not conduct a head count. USDA has not publicly released a more recent count.

As a result, any specific numbers currently circulating on social media are simply estimates and speculation. The only entity that knows exactly how many dogs remain at Ridglan Farms is Ridglan Farms.

What we do know is that thousands of beagles once lived at this facility, and more dogs still need help. Our focus remains on securing the release of as many dogs as possible and finding them safe, loving homes. Dane County Humane Society and all of the other groups involved remain ready to help if additional dogs are released.

With thanks to Center for a Humane Economy. Learn more about advancing the policies needed to end the laboratory-animal pipeline here: https://centerforahumaneeconomy.org/ridglan-beagle-release/

06/07/2026

Oh my, this is a big world that I had no idea even existed outside of those walls. Since being out, I've been experiencing so many new things; sounds, smells, human interaction! (Oh, uh, I'm Harley by the way.)

So far, I've discovered that I really enjoy the presence of other dogs, don't mind rides in the car, and that all humans aren't that bad after all. In fact, I'm so curious what my foster humans are doing, that I like to be their shadow. Though I'm still not at 100%, house training isn't going so bad. I'm gradually getting there! When going for walks on the leash I sometimes have my moments where I stop and freeze. I don't know if it's out of fear, confusion, or if I just need a minute to take things in. But I need my new humans to understand that I am still navigating this huge change after all. In fact, I typically present as shy when you first meet me, which is why I think no one has really fallen hard for me yet. But, after some time together, we'll grow that bond. I just need some time. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy playing too once I warm up to you and the other dogs in the home!

I want to be transparent though as I'd prefer that my forever family completely understands that this transition will likely be hard. When you initially go to attach my leash, I get a little nervous. When you close the door to my crate, I start feeling all sorts of emotions, which makes me paw at the door and bark a bit -this comes and goes, but I do eventually settle. However, when I'm not in my crate and you leave me alone, I feel TRULY alone which I don't always love. So, I may whine a bit, which you can understand why.

What I feel that I need in order to truly thrive would be someone who is patient and understanding. Maybe someone who has the ability to be home often so I'm not kenneled too much, though I do understand that often times, kennels are a safe space. Doesn't mean I love it though. And lastly, I really would like to have at least one other dog in the home. It helps me build confidence, have a constant companion and have someone to learn what it's like to just be a dog.

If you think you'd be a good fit for me, please apply so we can see if we hit it off!
-Harley

You can apply for this pup at: https://www.fetchfosterandrescue.com/adopt

Name: Harley

D.O.B: 05/04/2024

Breed: Beagle

S*x: Male

Weight: 23.2 lbs

Altered: Yes

Adoption Fee: 400

Good with kids: I'm not sure.

Good with dogs: Yes, I enjoy dog friends!

Good with cats: I'm not sure.

Special Requirements: Another dog in home.

*Positive reinforcement obedience training is a great way to bond with your new family member. It can also help set up a relationship with greater odds of success integrating your new pet into your family. Anyone who provides proof of completed positive reinforcement training will receive a 100 dollar refund from Fetch Foster and Rescue Inc! If you have questions or are wondering if the class you want to take qualifies please reach out! ♥️

Fetch Foster and Rescue Inc is a 501c3 non-profit organization

05/27/2026

05/27/2026

It's been four long weeks, and Elmo is still waiting for someone to visit him. This sweet boy spends his days playing in the yard with his toys, but he's incredibly lonely. He's adjusted to his "new normal" at the shelter, patiently waiting for his permanent family to find him. 🥺

Elmo is an amazing young dog who would make a wonderful companion, especially for another dog, but no cats for this guy! He's the perfect size at around 40 pounds, loves to take long walks and play with other dogs. He's always up for endless couch snuggles. 💖

If you're looking for a loyal and loving friend, please apply to meet Elmo! He's ready to fill your home with joy. 💕🐾 www.marshfieldpetshelter.org/adopt

05/26/2026