26/08/2026
Amen to that - well said, Saro Boghozian!
This was not written by me but by someone named Saro
Boghozian:
"Recently, many beagles have been rescued from Ridglan Farms, and that is truly something to celebrate. As a beagle owner and dog trainer, I wanted to share a perspective that may be difficult to hear but is important to consider.
These dogs are not typical rescue dogs.
Not because they are beagles, and not because of the headlines surrounding their story, but because of the lives they have lived.
Many people are opening their homes and hearts to these dogs, which is wonderful. However, it's important to understand that recovery may not be as straightforward as providing food, shelter, affection, and expecting them to quickly adapt to a normal family life.
For many of these dogs, a cage is the only life they have ever known.
Think about that for a moment.
The very things we see as freedom—a large backyard, a busy household, walks through the neighborhood, visitors coming and going—may feel overwhelming, confusing, and even frightening to them. What seems like paradise to us may initially feel like chaos to them.
We also cannot fully predict the long-term effects that years of laboratory life may have had on their physical health, nervous systems, emotional well-being, or ability to cope with stress. Some dogs may adjust surprisingly well, while others may require months or even years of patient support.
My advice is simple:
Go slowly.
Resist the urge to do too much, too fast.
Don't assume that because a dog is finally "free," they are ready for everything freedom brings.
Instead, try to see the world through their eyes.
Focus on helping them feel safe before helping them feel adventurous.
Build trust before expecting confidence.
Create predictability before introducing novelty.
Some of these beagles may transition into family life with relatively few challenges. Others may struggle with things that most dogs take for granted. Neither outcome is a reflection of the dog's worth or the owner's commitment.
These dogs need patience, understanding, realistic expectations, and people who are willing to meet them where they are—not where we wish they would be.
The rescue is only the beginning of their journey.
The real work starts now".