The Humane Society of Marion County (HSMC) has received over a dozen beagles that were recently rescued from a mass breeding facility in Virginia.
According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), approximately 4,000 beagles have been removed from the Envigo laboratory breeding facility due to multiple violations for such issues as inadequate veterinary care and insufficient food. Many of these dogs were bound for animal testing laboratories across the country.
In a social media post, HSMC stated, “We usually like to maintain our life-saving endeavors and transports locally or at least in the state of Florida. But when the Humane Society of the United States reached out, it was time to step up to the plate. ”
Last week, HSMC became one of three shelters in the state of Florida to receive some of the 4,000 beagles. HSMC used a large vehicle and traveled to pick up 15 beagles, and the dogs arrived in Ocala on Thursday, August 18.
All of the beagles received by HSMC are males, and they are seven months old or younger. According to HSMC, the beagles will not be available for at least two to three weeks. During this time, the dogs will receive “a spa treatment, neuter surgeries, socialization, and medical observation.”
HSMC will make an announcement once the beagles are available for adoption, and they will not be released all at once. The adoptions will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and will be subject to approval.
The nonprofit organization shared a short video on its Facebook webpage showing one of the beagles, named Augie, enjoying his first experience with a ball. Later in the afternoon, he was running around with the ball in his mouth.
“If you cannot adopt but would still like to help better the lives of these precious babies, please consider donating to their care and transport costs here,” stated HSMC on its Facebook webpage.
For more information, or to make a donation, please visit the Humane Society of Marion County’s website.