Around 25 arrested in protest at Wisconsin beagle breeding farm

Activists tried to gain entry to Ridglan Farms, where an estimated 2,000 beagles are kept

Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a single beagle's eye, the pupil dilated and the iris ringed with light, creating a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic.The protest over the treatment of beagles at a Wisconsin breeding facility has escalated tensions between animal welfare groups and the research industry.Madison Today

Around 25 animal welfare activists were arrested as around 1,000 protesters attempted to gain entry to a beagle breeding and research facility in Wisconsin. The protesters were met by officers firing pepper spray and rubber bullets. This was the second attempt in as many months by demonstrators to take beagles from Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds, about 25 miles southwest of Madison.

Why it matters

The protest highlights ongoing tensions between animal welfare groups and facilities that breed animals for research purposes. While Ridglan denies any mistreatment, the activists argue the dogs are being abused and have a right to be rescued.

The details

On Saturday, around 1,000 protesters tried to gain entry to Ridglan Farms, a beagle breeding and research facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. They were met by officers who fired pepper spray and rubber bullets, resulting in around 25 arrests. The protesters tried to overcome barricades that included a manure-filled trench, hay bales and a barbed-wire fence. Some got through the fence but were unable to enter the facility. This was the second attempt in as many months by demonstrators to take beagles from the facility.

  • On Saturday, April 18, 2026, around 1,000 protesters attempted to gain entry to Ridglan Farms.
  • In March, protesters broke into the facility and took 30 dogs, resulting in 27 arrests.

The players

Ridglan Farms

A beagle breeding and research facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, where an estimated 2,000 beagles are kept.

Wayne Hsiung

The 44-year-old leader of the Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs, who was arrested and charged with a tentative felony charge of conspiracy to commit burglary.

Dane County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the protest and made around 25 arrests.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“No one should be assaulted for giving aid to a dog, even if damage to property is part of that rescue effort. The animals of this Earth are not 'things.' They're sentient beings. And we have the right to rescue them from abuse.”

— Wayne Hsiung, Leader of the Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs

What’s next

The Dane County Sheriff's Office said the situation was 'significantly calmer and more peaceful' on Sunday, when around 200 people assembled outside the farm. They dispersed after around two hours. The sheriff said they are pleased with the group's cooperation and willingness to remain peaceful while still sending their message of concern for the dogs.

The takeaway

This protest highlights the ongoing tensions between animal welfare groups and facilities that breed animals for research purposes. While Ridglan denies any mistreatment, the activists argue the dogs are being abused and have a right to be rescued, leading to confrontations and arrests.