Stories to Inspire

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Hi John,

Eight years ago, Direct Action Everywhere investigators opened a cage at Ridglan Farms and lifted out a trembling beagle ( [link removed] ) who had never felt grass beneath her paws or sunlight on her face. *That beagle was Julie.*

Born into the second largest beagle breeding facility for experimentation in the United States, she had known nothing but metal bars, suffering, and the desperate barking of thousands of dogs warehoused for profit. When rescuers carried her out that day, freedom was terrifying. Julie didn't know how to play. She would get overstimulated and stressed by simple, everyday life events. She didn't understand that toys were for fun or that humans could be safe.

But with patience, love, and time, Julie learned what it means to be a dog. She discovered that squeaky toys make delightful sounds, that belly rubs feel amazing, that tempeh is the best treat ever created, and that sunny spots are perfect for napping.

*And this year, Julie received the best news of her life:* *Ridglan Farms is shutting down* ( [link removed] ) *.*

This victory didn't come easily or quickly, but it shows what's possible when we refuse to give up and when we work together:

* *2017:* DxE investigated Ridglan Farms and rescued Julie, Anna and Lucy.
* *2018:* The Intercept broke the story with a powerful exposé of the dog experimentation ( [link removed] ) industry.
* *2021:* Felony charges were filed against the rescuers, who faced them head on, demonstrating tremendous courage in the face of repression. As the trial approached, activists and supporters mobilized against Ridglan.
* *2024:* The charges were shockingly dropped a week before trial, but activists kept going, traveling to Wisconsin, holding demonstrations, and filing a motion for a special prosecutor to investigate Ridglan.
* *2025:* Everything changed. A special prosecutor was appointed, Ridglan’s veterinarian's license was suspended, the Dane County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution against Ridglan Farms, and so much more. Media covered the story throughout.
* *Result:* Faced with mounting pressure and felony animal cruelty charges, Ridglan announced they'll close their breeding operation in 2026.

This win happened because of the tireless work of a coalition of organizations including Dane4Dogs ( [link removed] ) , The Simple Heart ( [link removed] ) , and the Animal Activist Legal Defense Project ( [link removed] ) , who built on DxE's investigation to create unstoppable momentum for change. (Support their work!)

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Julie's journey from a terrified breeding dog to a joyful companion mirrors the journey of this campaign. Slow at first, requiring persistence, but ultimately transformative. Now Julie will live in a world where the place that caused her so much suffering no longer exists. That's the power of movements that stay the course.

Your support shows the rescuers who face prosecution that people have their back and it fuels the long-term campaigns that achieve victories like this one. *There are only two days left to give during our end-of-year fundraising drive, and all donations are currently being* *tripled.* ** *Please make a donation today* ( [link removed] ) *.*

Triple My Donation ( directactioneverywhere.com/donate )

Together, we’re building a world where every animal gets the chance Julie did - to heal, to feel joy, and to live free from fear. Thank you for being part of this movement, and for believing that change is possible.

For the animals,
Cassie

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