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As a little girl, I was certain I would grow up to become a Veterinarian. I loved animals and did everything for them. Every weekend was spent volunteering at the shelter, and every weekday was spent advocating for their rights, conducting service projects, or telling someone about the newest dog I saw at the park. Animals still bring a lot of joy to my life. But one of the reasons I didn’t become a Veterinarian was because I couldn’t stand to see them hurting. It seems that witnessing this pain is a universal experience.
In Wisconsin, the rescue of approximately 1,500 beagles from a research facility shows that animal cruelty is still an issue. Videos reveal beagles stepping onto grass for the first time, volunteers carrying frightened dogs out of cages, and trembling dogs learning trust after years of abuse.
As Christians, we’re called to respond appropriately. And though it might just be animals to some, we as Jesus-followers are called to show biblical compassion, stewardship of creation, and practical mercy towards vulnerable creatures. Because our care for animals can reflect our Creator’s heart. And what does it say about our faith if we ignore suffering simply because it does not speak our language?
According to FOX 32 Chicago, 1,500 beagles were removed from Ridglan Farms, a breeding and research facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. With the help and involvement of rescue organizations and foster networks, the beagles are now free from testing. With a rapid and widespread national emotional response online, the story has gone viral, resonating with young and old animal advocates alike. Even non-dog-lovers are being moved by compassion to shut down operations and prevent additional animals from being harmed. But why?
Why the Story Captured National Attention?
When activists began removing the dogs from Ridglan Farms, the facility “gave up its license to avoid potential felony animal mistreatment charges” (KCCI). As videos and photos of the beagles learning normal experiences began to circulate, individuals have gravitated towards involvement and care. People want to know how they can help these animals heal, find safety, and receive a second chance at life. Because when you show someone slavery, they want to know where to find freedom.
Since the rescue, Yahoo Life reports that the beagles are becoming social media stars:
“In the days since the dogs were released, social media has become full of videos of these beagles exploring their new cage-free world. One video posted on Instagram earlier this week shows dozens of beagles in a big field, going outside for what the video says is their first time ever.”
Why Are Beagles Commonly Used in Research In The First Place?
According to the Beagle Freedom Project, beagles are frequently used as first-choice test subjects because of their friendly and docile temperament.
“They won’t fight back,” said the technician at the laboratory. “They let us do anything we want to them, that’s why we like beagles.”
Beyond their gentle character, beagles are small in size and generally cooperative in nature. Frequently used in pharmaceutical and toxicity testing, thousands of dogs are still used in U.S. research annually. USDA reports track animals used in research facilities in an effort to prevent animal cruelty cases from happening. Unfortunately, many animals, like these beagles from Wisconsin, fly under the radar for far too long.
As public compassion towards beagles is increasing, Christians should be aware of the deeper revelation resulting from humanity’s instinct to protect vulnerable life.