36 beagles saved from a criminally-negligent research facility arrived at a rescue centre for their second chance at life

Dozens of beagles were taken to their new home after being rescued from a facility where they were bred for research. In a video, 36 beagles arrived at an animal centre in Chicago, after campaigners say they were taken from Envigo, a research animal breeding facility in Virginia. This rescue was part of an effort by The Humane Society of the United States to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome the over 4,000 animals, they said. Rescuers say many of the dogs found at Envigo were suffering from illnesses, injuries and malnutrition. The Anti-Cruelty Society in Chicago, Illinois, welcomed 36 female beagles on Friday (2) after volunteers made the 800-mile-trip to get them. Tracy Elliott, CEO of The Anti-Cruelty Society, said he felt compelled to help the huge rescue effort as the Society sees itself as "a leader in the animal welfare community". He said: “We felt it was our duty to open our doors to these beagles and treat them with compassion that they have never received. “These efforts align with our vision to build a humane, healthy and happy community in Chicago where pets and people thrive together. “I am so grateful to our support network of staff, fosters, community partners, and donors who have stepped up to help us take on this lifesaving rescue initiative.,” Dr. Emily Swiniarski, the Society’s medical director said the crowded living conditions of the Virginia facility will have caused many medical issues. Dr Swiniarski said the pups will receive innovative medical and behavioural treatments. She said: “We anticipate these beagles will face special medical challenges and will differ from our usual transport animals. “Fleas and heartworm disease are possible, and they have all gone without very important, necessary vaccinations. “Once the beagles have decompressed in their loving foster homes, they will need to come into our clinic for a thorough veterinary assessment followed by spay/neuter.”