Animal Activists Attempt Second Raid at Wisconsin Beagle Farm

Hundreds protest after activists break into Ridglan Farms, a facility that breeds beagles for medical research.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:38pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a broken lock or damaged fence panel, conceptually illustrating the vandalism and break-in at a beagle breeding facility.The aftermath of a recent break-in at a Wisconsin beagle breeding facility exposes the escalating tensions between animal activists and the medical research industry.Madison Today

Hundreds of animal rights activists gathered at the Dane County Courthouse in Madison, Wisconsin, to protest after a group of activists broke into Ridglan Farms, a local facility that breeds beagles for medical research. This marks the second time in recent months that the farm has been targeted by animal activists.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between animal rights groups and research facilities that use animals for medical testing. Ridglan Farms has faced increased scrutiny and protests from activists who argue that breeding beagles for research is unethical, while the facility maintains that its work is essential for advancing medical treatments.

The details

According to reports, the activists broke into Ridglan Farms on April 18th, leading to a confrontation with Dane County law enforcement officers who were on the scene. During the protest at the courthouse, some activists allegedly attempted to assault the officers.

  • The incident at Ridglan Farms occurred on April 18, 2026.
  • Hundreds of activists gathered at the Dane County Courthouse on the same day to protest the farm's operations.

The players

Ridglan Farms

A Wisconsin facility that breeds beagles for medical research purposes.

Dane County law enforcement

The local law enforcement officers who responded to the incident at Ridglan Farms.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Wisconsin.”

— Robert Jenkins, Dane County resident

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between animal rights activists and research facilities that use animals for medical testing. While both sides have valid concerns, the confrontation at Ridglan Farms demonstrates the need for open dialogue and a search for common ground to address these complex issues.