Beagle Rescue Group Converts Former Animal Testing Lab into Sanctuary

Beagle Freedom Project (BFP) has repurposed a 30-acre property in Oklahoma that once housed an animal testing facility, renaming it "Freedom Fields." The organization, known for its dedication to rescuing lab animals and ending animal testing, closed down the testing facility in February and acquired the surrounding property.

Beagle Freedom Project has shut down a masive animal testing laboratory in Nowata, Oklahoma, effectively ending one-third of the flea and tick testing industry and decades of cruel experimentation - sparing thousands of dogs and cats from future testing and purpose breeding. Beagle Freedom Project has taken over the 30-acre property and facilities where these animals were once held captive and tested on, and is transforming the space into a rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption center. More than 200 dogs and cats have been surrendered to BFP and liberated from toxic and painful tests, and after a lifetime in the lab, now they are safe with them at Freedom Fields.

At the heart of this endeavor is Shannon Keith, the driving force behind the Beagle Freedom Project. For years, Shannon has been tirelessly advocating for the rights of lab animals, striving to end the practice of euthanizing them after testing. Her dedication has already led to the rescue and adoption of countless animals, changing lives one at a time.

The journey towards Freedom Fields began with a simple yet powerful gesture: Kieth reaching out to testing facilities across the country, urging them to release their animals to the care of the Beagle Freedom Project. While responses were often scarce, one such plea sparked a chain of events that ultimately led to the closure of a testing facility in Oklahoma.

Keith personally reached out to operational testing facilities annually, urging them to release their animals to the project's care. While responses are rare, a pivotal moment came when a facility owner, prompted by USDA citations, contacted the Beagle Freedom Project to surrender the remaining animals and address regulatory issues.

Following negotiations, the facility owner agreed to relinquish their USDA license and permanently cease animal testing operations. The Beagle Freedom Project acquired the property, securing the animals' custody and initiating plans for Freedom Fields. Presently, the organization is renovating the site to provide a comfortable environment for the animals awaiting adoption.

Today, Freedom Fields stands as a haven for over 200 animals rescued from the testing facility. Despite the scars of their past, these animals now experience love, care, and companionship, thanks to the dedicated team at the Beagle Freedom Project. But the vision for Freedom Fields extends beyond mere refuge; it's a place where visitors can learn about animal testing and responsible pet care, fostering empathy and understanding.