Animal Humane Society Takes in Nearly 50 Rescued Beagles

A large rescue effort freed 1,500 dogs from a commercial breeder in Wisconsin. The beagles, which were used for animal testing, are now being sent to shelters across the region. Forty-nine of those dogs went to the Animal Humane Society in Golden Valley.

Sarah Bhimani, Animal Humane Society’s director of communications, said the dogs are very timid, which is uncharacteristic of their breed. She said it will take time for them to adjust and get settled.

“This was a perfect example of how we can step in and support our animal community,” Bhimani said. “Bring these dogs to safety, to loving homes, and help them find their second chances.”

Animal Humane Society staff and volunteers helped process each beagle as they came in.

The Beagle Rescue Project asked Animal Humane Society to take in some of the dogs as a part of a rescue and placement effort. Veterinarians who looked them over identified dental disease and other treatable conditions. The dogs also need to be fixed and acclimated to people.

“They’ll probably need some time with our behavior staff, our behavior volunteers to gain some confidence. Learn how to walk on a leash, just learn to be a dog,” Bhimani said. “They just need some time to learn that humans aren’t scary: We usually come bearing yummy treats and toys. They’ll get there, just need some time and space to acclimate.”

Thirty-three of the dogs remained at Animal Humane Society Friday, while 16 were transferred to Ruff Start Rescue and the Tri-County Humane Society.

Bhimani said they’ve already seen great interest in the beagles and they will become available for adoption on a first-come, first-serve basis. The earliest could be available as soon as a week away.

Golden Valley