A large protest at Ridglan Farms escalated Saturday as police used rubber bullets and pepper spray to stop animal rights activists attempting to enter the beagle breeding and research facility.
Protest Turns Confrontational
Roughly 1,000 demonstrators gathered as part of a campaign led by Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs. Authorities say 300–400 protesters tried to breach the property, damaging barriers and clashing with law enforcement. Multiple arrests were made, including activist leader Wayne Hsiung.
Despite the effort, no dogs were removed during the raid.
Long-Running Controversy
Ridglan Farms houses nearly 2,000 beagles and has faced years of scrutiny. The facility agreed to give up its state breeding license by July 1 following a legal settlement but continues operating under a federal research license.
A previous March raid resulted in 30 dogs being taken, though most were later returned.
Conflicting Claims
Activists argue the dogs are being mistreated and are pushing for their release. Ridglan denies wrongdoing, stating inspections by federal authorities have found no evidence of abuse and that its research supports treatments for canine diseases.
What’s Next
With the license deadline approaching, tensions remain high. Protesters later shifted demonstrations to a local jail where arrested participants were being held.
The failed raid highlights a growing standoff between activists, law enforcement, and a controversial research facility—with the fate of thousands of dogs still unresolved.
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