10 beagles rescued from commercial breeder arrive in Westchester
Officials said the dogs are a part of a group 1,500 beagles that were released from Ridglan Farms in Wisconsin.
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A group of beagles is getting ready for their second chance at life.
Thursday was a big day in Briarcliff Manor as the dogs arrived at SPCA Westchester after being rescued from a commercial breeder.
Tyler Lah, an animal care specialist at the shelter, says their arrival is significant.
"It was an emotional journey seeing them come off that bus and being pretty shut down and scared. Some of them were a little carsick, but as soon as they touched that grass and realized what freedom felt like, it was really special to see," Lah said.
Officials said the dogs are part of a group of 1,500 beagles that were rescued from Ridglan Farms in Wisconsin.
Some of the dogs that arrived in Westchester are seniors and pregnant.
"These dogs were bred to be tested on, living their lives in laboratories, not getting to have any socialization or any enrichment," Lah said.
The commercial breeding company didn't respond to News 12's inquiry, but shelter staff said many of these dogs have likely spent most of their lives in cages.
After they get checked out by the vet, CEO Shannon Laukhuf said the focus will be on helping the dogs experience life outside of a lab.
"They're going to sleep in a soft bed tonight. They're going to snuggle with someone who loves them and is not there to hurt them," Laukhuf said.
The situation made volunteer Jeff Strub emotional.
"I just feel bad for them, and I see how happy they are now," Strub said.
Officials said some of the beagles could be ready for adoption as soon as next week. Until then, the shelter is accepting donations to support their care.
