Countdown to Christmas: Win this stress-relieving book for your dog lover

We're excited to announce our new campaign!

DISCLOSURE: All prizes and review samples in Lulu's Countdown to Christmas Giveaway were provided for free, but no other compensation was provided. All opinions are my own.

Call your congressman: USDA makes it harder to track puppy mills, animal experiments

Feb. 6 UPDATE: The Humane Society of the U.S. says it is taking steps to sue the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture for removing the APHIS database from the government website. Please read the full report here. 

Feb. 7 UPDATE: The USDA now says "adjustments may be made in the decision to remove animal welfare inspection reports from the APHIS website, the Associated Press is reporting.

Read the full story from AP here.

Learn more about why this issue is so important below.
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I have never been political on this site, and I try very hard not to. 

But if there is one issue we can agree on, it's treating animals well and that was made harder up in Washington.

So now I'm asking that you take a moment to tell your Congressman and Senators that you don't agree with this move to remove USDA inspections and other enforcement information on animal facilities across the country.

C is for cruelty-free: 3 apps that help animals

When it comes to beagles, cruelty-free is a topic that's near and dear to our hearts.

Beagles are the top dog breed for researchers testing products from wonder drugs to laundry detergent. There's a worldwide movement to rescue those beagles from research labs. Beagle Freedom Project is one such organization.

One way to help get the message out is to switch to products that don't test on animals. They're cruelty-free. They're lots of products out there, and you don't have to go to Whole Foods Market to get them either. Check out my cruelty-free guide to get some helpful tips.

But there are also some apps that can help. Check them out.

LEAPING BUNNY

Leaping Bunny is a coalition of organizations who have created a specific "cruelty-free standard" that companies have to adhere to in order to get the Leaping Bunny stamp of approval. The app is free and available in the Apple app store and on Android. Find out more on the Leaping Bunny website.

CRUELTY CUTTER

Cruelty Cutter is an app from Beagle Freedom Project. It catalogs hundreds of products (moreso than Leaping Bunny). While the app is not as stringent as Leaping Bunny, it's breadth of info gives readers a wide variety of products to choose from. The app costs $2.99 and is available in the Apple App Store and on Android. More information is on the Cruelty Cutter website.

BUNNY FREE

The Bunny Free app is a free app from PETA. It's similar to Cruelty Cutter and Leaping Bunny, but it's curated by PETA. It's available in Apple App Store and on Android.

Bonus: ASPCA ACTION

Animal research is just one of the big animal hot topics to consider when talking about animal cruelty. ASPCA Action is a magazine that will keep you up-to-date on all of ASPCA's actions. It's a free app.

Beagle Freedom Project's new campaign lets you be the advocate

Thousands of animals are in research labs across the country, many of which are in public facilities funded with taxpayer dollars.

Beagle Freedom Project has launched a new campaign where you become the advocate for a dog or cat in one of these labs, in the hopes of getting more out.
BFP's Identity Campaign  identified hundreds of dogs and cats through public records requests.

When you pay a $50 adoption fee, you get an adoption certificate, an engraved tag and everything you need to know about where the pet is and what has been done to them.

The hope is that people who adopt these dogs will become advocates and work to get them out of the lab.

Courtesy Beagle Freedom Project.

The dogs and cats are in over a dozen universities, from University of Florida in Gainesville to Colorado State University. That means the chances are good there's a dog in need close to you. I was amazed at how many dogs were at the University of Florida.

Want to help a dog or a cat near you? Head to BFPs Identity Campaign site. 

Rescued by some beagles: Author Teresa Rhyne on her new book

"The Dogs Were Rescued (And So Was I)" is now out in bookstores by SourceBooks! Remember, if you buy a book between now and Halloween, part of the proceeds can go to Beagle Freedom Project.

Rhyne is the author of the New York Times bestselling "The Dog Lived (And So Will I)," about her battle with cancer, and also her beagle's battle with cancer.

Last month I reviewed the book, and talked about how Rhyne focused this book on her journey toward a more compassionate lifestyle. As you can see in this interview, Teresa is passionate about this journey. Check out our interview.

1) When you were working on The Dogs Were Rescued (And So Was I) did you plan then on ever writing another book? 
I certainly hoped to. I’ve always loved writing and have taken a lot of courses, gone to a lot of writer’s retreats and conferences and spent a lot of time with my butt in the chair actually writing, so of course it’s nice when some of that gets published. The surprise was that I wrote another non-fiction book—another memoir! I’d always written fiction until, as they say, life got stranger than fiction. So I assumed I’d go back to fiction. But apparently my life will always be stranger than fiction. After this second book, I now think of myself as a non-fiction writer who might one day try her hand at fiction.

2) How was the decision to write this book different from the first?

It was primarily different because of the timing. With the first book, I had fully completed the experiences I was writing about—and in fact, parts of the book were about a time more than five years in the past. With this book I had an idea for a follow-up memoir, but as I was writing and as life unfolded, a completely different story happened. It started as a book about finding a healthier lifestyle for me and my dog and it wound up being a book about living a compassionate lifestyle and all that entails, and two more beagles had entered my life. So I was writing in much more “real time.” And of course another significant difference was that it was much more of a certainty that this one would be published and see the light of day. With the success of the first book, I was able to sell the second book on the basis of about a ten page outline and proposal. Then, of course, I had to write the darn thing!

Chris, Percival, Teresa, Daphne. (PHOTO/Teresa Rhyne)

3) As I read through the book I realized I had witnessed many of the earlier moments unfold from your Facebook updates (going to India, for instance). How did that notoriety you gained from the first book impact your life and the eventual changes you made (i.e. veganism, Beagle Freedom Project, etc.)?

The biggest challenge was getting other people’s comments out of my head so that I could stay true to my voice while writing. Thanks to social media, Amazon, and Goodreads reviews, I know exactly how people felt about the first book (and in many case how they feel about the “me” they believe they know), so it’s tempting to respond to that or to make changes. For example, there were a few complaints about the swearing in the first book and I hesitated then to swear in the second book. But here’s the thing—two cancer battles made me swear! I can’t lie about that. It was true to my voice and to change it to anything else would have rung hollow. There is actually far less swearing in the second book, and I questioned whether I had toned it down because of the comments or because I just didn’t swear as much in the situations described in The Dogs Were Rescued. Once I was comfortable that it was answer b I moved on (“get out of my head Amazon reviewers!!”). For the most part, I feel really lucky with the folks I’ve “met” on Facebook and in social media—people like you who love animals as much as I do and are trying to do the right thing. I’ve learned so much about veganism, animal rights, dog rescues, even beagles (and I’ve had beagle companions in my life for over 25 years now). I hope I can do my part in inspiring others to adopt a more compassionate lifestyle as well.

4) Daphne kinda just happened (Percival less so). Do you think the suddenness with which she came into your life lessened the pain of losing Seamus, or just channel it off into other directions?

I think in a way the adoption of Daphne lessened the immediate pain of losing Seamus, and it also deferred it, but it certainly didn’t eliminate it. My grief in those first few days was immobilizing. Daphne pulled me out of that because I had to focus on her and her extensive needs at that time. And I threw myself into that. Once Daphne was adopted and healthy, I began to relapse into heavy despair over losing Seamus. More than once I unexpectedly broke down in tears when doing a talk or a book signing and mentioning Seamus. I still do! And I’m not much of a crier normally. I would never intentionally adopt a dog that soon after losing one, but I truly believe Daphne was meant to be with us.

Teresa and Percival at Beaglefest (PHOTO/Teresa Rhyne)

5) You were already thinking about getting a BFP dog before it became a possibility. And you were even looking at Percival. So is it possible the Beaglerette was always going to choose him? It certainly read like it was meant to be?

Ha! Yes, that was definitely “in the universe.” I can honestly say I had an open mind about it. I think because we originally heard that Percival was not available for adoption, my mind had moved on to the other options and opened up to all of them.  I adored (and still adore) Rizzo and if the decision had been left to me I honestly can’t say who I would have picked. So I’m glad it was Daphne’s decision…though she’s certainly had days where she’s regretted her choice. LOL. And clearly, above all else, we know Chris and Percival were meant to be together.

6) I kept waiting for you to mention that the dogs were on a vegan diet. There were several points where it was a logical progression, almost foreshadowing. Are they on a vegan diet at this point?

This is something I struggle with on a daily basis. I have not turned them vegan. I give them only vegan treats, but their meals still have animal protein. Each vet (even a few holistic vets) I’ve talked to has been against turning them vegan. And I feel like if there isn’t extensive scientific study and recommendation for a vegan diet for a dog, trying it out on a dog who has battled cancer repeatedly and another who was a victim of a pharmaceutical lab’s testing for eighteen months is just not wise. I keep looking into it though and I occasionally mix in V-Dog vegan dog food just to cut down on the animal product in their meals.

Daphne and Percival. (PHOTO/Teresa Rhyne)

7) It doesn't look like you've become a "hemp skirt-wearing hippie" yet. Do you ever think you'll get into the kind of activism you talked about seeing in the book (at the animal advocacy museum)? Or are you still working toward finding other methods of making a difference?

I’m coming to terms with each of us doing to the best of our abilities—and my abilities (I hope!) lie in writing and speaking about the issues, so I plan on doing as much of that as I can. You may yet one day see me at a protest carrying a sign and, likely, bawling my eyes out. I’ve got to acquire that kind of strength.

8) Have you eased into a place at this point where you can be comfortable around people (other than Chris) who eat meat?

Yes, and no. It still makes me very sad to see the way people glorify the eating of a tortured and dead animal. And I’m appalled at the way Americans throw cheese and cream on everything. Everything! It’s like we don’t think it has flavor if there isn’t animal secretions on it. But, I realize I don’t get anywhere by saying things like that to folks or getting up and walking away from the table. If, however, someone comments on my meal, I will respond with a comment on theirs, as that seems fair. I have to be if not comfortable, tolerant, around meat eaters since the vast majority of people in my life are meat eaters. On the other hand, I adore being in a vegan restaurant or at a vegan catered event where I can indulge in every single item and everyone around me (vegan or not) is doing the same. Not a dead animal to be seen! Complete bliss!

9) Do you feel like you've found your "tribe" at this point?

I’m getting there. I shouldn’t be surprised it hasn’t been an easy thing to do though--it goes with my whole “not a group person” thing. But I’m enjoying learning different aspects of veganism from a variety of groups. There are many, many aspects to a vegan life and that keeps things interesting for me.

10) What do you want people to take away most from this book?

I want folks to think more about their choices and how animals are affected by those choices. Make conscientious choices and own those choices. It’s hypocritical to say that you are an animal lover and you can’t watch factory farming documentaries because they’re too sad, and then turn around and eat a cheeseburger. If you’re eating a cheeseburger, you’re contributing to that “sadness.” You’re the reason that pain and death happens to that animal. If you eat that cheeseburger, you’re not an animal lover. You’re a “dog lover” perhaps, but not an animal lover. Be clear about that. Think about that.  Because that’s a choice you are making. Think about the products you’re buying. Do beagles need to suffer and die for your mascara? Your laundry detergent? Your shampoo? They don’t. But they will if you don’t take the time to be certain you are shopping cruelty-free. If you don’t take time to make a conscientious choice, animals will continue to suffer. It’s that simple. And that’s what I want people to take away from this book—the power of their own choices.

 

A Texas-sized beagle rescue and a new cruelty-free app

Courtesy Beagle Freedom Project.

This beautiful beagle is free.

This week Beagle Freedom Project announced its first rescue in Texas. Seven beagles rescued from a lab on the border of Texas and Mexico.

Beagle Freedom Project will not say what lab it was, that's part of the agreement. And they can't say what these beagles (named Candy, Luca, Frida, Dolly, Nina, Bobby, and Grumpy) have been through. But some of them have been waiting to be freed from the lab for nine years!

Some 96 percent of animal testing is done using beagles because they are such sweet dogs. Your prescription meds, makeup, household cleaners and even your toothpaste may have been tested on a beagle.  

Courtesy Beagle Freedom Project.

Thanks to BFP these dogs are getting their first experience with a soft bed, grass and sunshine. They'll be fostered before they are adopted out. And it takes a lot of patience to foster and adopt a lab beagle. They don't know what it's like to be a dog. Some have trouble trusting humans. They've never had a treat. They've never walked outside to go potty. 

How can you help?

Beagle Freedom Project is trying to build a new recovery center. You can donate to them.

You can also sign up to foster or adopt a BFP dog. 

You can sign the petition and contact your state lawmakers to get them to sponsor the Beagle Freedom Bill, which forces labs to retire their lab beagles to rescue groups instead of killing them.

But you can also send a message to companies that test on dogs.

These companies, and many others test on animals.

Beagle Freedom Project came out with an easy way to find companies that don't test on animals.

If you have a smart phone, you can download the Beagle Freedom Project Cruelty Cutter app. You can use it to scan products in your house and find out if they are tested on animals. You can also find cruelty-free alternatives. Start telling companies that you want products that don't test on animals.

This is just the latest story I've written about the Beagle Freedom Project. You can read my other story here, including my two-part interview with BFP president Shannon Keith, below.

• Saving the AstraZeneca beagles
• Founder talks rescue, AstraZeneca and how you can help, part 1
• Beagle Freedom Project founder on what you can do to help research beagles
• DC beagles free thanks to Beagle Freedom Project
• Beagle of the week: Santi of the Beagle Freedom Project

Get involved: Beagle Freedom Bill helps dogs and cats in labs

The beagles on the left are testing cigarettes. It know it's a tough image to see I know, but it needs to be seen.

Every day researchers use thousands of beagles to test cigarettes, household cleaners, chemicals,  pharmaceuticals and sometimes cosmetics. Beagles are the number one breed used in labs. They're sweet and trusting dogs, as we all know. But that sweetness is a curse.

What's worse is what happens after. After years of experimentation, years in a cage without a kind word or touch, without love or affection, without decent food or a bed, these animals are killed.

That's it. They are bred, live and die for research.

Beagle Freedom Project is trying to change that.

 

 The Beagle Freedom Bill is currently working its away through the California and Minnesota legislatures. What it does is compel publicly-funded facilities to release dogs and cats used in testing into the care of rescue groups. 

Beagle Freedom Project is the group behind the bill. They've rescued 150 beagles since 2010. They've also saved other dogs used in research, as well as cats, rabbits, pigs and ponies.

The problem is, many facilities are unwilling to release the animals. They are afraid they will be publicly criticized for using animals.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? 

Right now the bill is in the California and Minnesota legislatures. Beagle Freedom Project has an action page where you can contact legislators, sign petitions and download materials to help spread awareness.

The  bill is also expected to be introduced in the New York legislature this session.

What about your state?

 
"While we are busy supporting campaigns in all these places for the bill’s passage we are also looking towards the future and investigating other opportunities to introduce," said Kevin Chase, director of operations with the Beagle Freedom Project. 

"That being said, we are a small organization with a limited staff and budget, and from that budget we can only spend 15 percent on political activities. With the three states we are in at present we are pretty much at our capacity for this session."

But next year, if you are interested in getting the bill passed in your state, BFP might be willing to work with you to make that happen.

You'll need to have sponsors in the legislature -- that means talking to your local lawmakers. 

If you're interested, contact BFP at: info@beaglefreedomproject.org.

Bogart and Indie, rescued beagles.

HUMANE COSMETICS ACT

In the U.S. House, Rep. Jim Moran (D-Virginia) is trying to end cosmetics testing in America -- H.R. 4148.

The bill would end testing on animals and also phase out the sale of cosmetics that are tested on animals in foreign countries.

Moran points to LUSH cosmetics as an example of a successful company that markets beauty products that are not tested on animals.

The bill has 22 co-sponsors but it's only been referred to one committee. 

A bill like this will require more bipartisan support. It also needs a companion bill in the U.S. Senate. 

How can you help? Find your representative on the U.S. House site and tell them that you want the bill to move forward.

The only reason that these laboratories exist is because they are successful at keeping it their dirty little secret. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith-on.html#sthash.XJn0VIjf.dpuf

The only reason that these laboratories exist is because they are successful at keeping it their dirty little secret. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith-on.html#sthash.XJn0VIjf.dpuf

The only reason that these laboratories exist is because they are successful at keeping it their dirty little secret. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith-on.html#sthash.XJn0VIjf.dpuf

2013: The year in beagles

From beagles on the run, to beagles rescued, to beagles who left a legacy, our favorite doggy breed was busy in 2013.

So lets take a look back at the year in beagles.

BEAGLES FALL ON THE AKC POPULAR BREED LIST

Beagles started the year on a low note -- everyone's favorite hound fell to number four on the 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds List put out by AKC every year (The beagle was number three the year before). The list is based on the number of dogs in a breed that are registered with the AKC each year. The golden retriever, German Sheperd and labrador retriever took the top three spots. 

THE ASTRA ZENECA BEAGLES

We did several stories about the worldwide effort to free the beagles used for testing by pharmaceutical giant Astra Zeneca. The company was closing a facility in Sweden and moving the beagles to England. 

Despite months of conversation with the company, however, activists could not convince Astra Zeneca that these beagles could find new lives as ordinary dogs. 

But the effort continues, including a bill in England to force companies to retire lab pets so they find new homes.

SPEAKING OF FREED LAB BEAGLES...

Sixty-six beagles got new homes in 2013 thanks to the efforts of the Beagle Freedom Project. The group expanded its operations to 23 states, and also saved mixed breed dogs, rabbits, cats, pigs and 10 ponies in the United Kingdom.

The rescues happened in Colorado, Minnesota and most notably Washington DC, which we wrote about. I also interviewed Shannon Keith, the founder of the Beagle Freedom Project, in a two-part interview.

The charity is now trying to build a Rescue and Outreach Center to help with temporary care, and they are getting into the lobbying business. They have bills in Minnesota and California to try and get those states to let more lab beagles get homes -- instead of the alternative.

Want the latest news? Head to the Beagle Freedom Project Facebook page.

Want to donate? Head to the BFP website.

A LEGACY OF THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND

In March, beaglekind lost a champion in Seamus the Famous. Seamus was the star of the book "The Dog Lived (And So Will I)," by Teresa Rhyne, who rescued Seamus from animal control in California. Not long after, doctors discovered Seamus had a tumor, and less than a year to live. Seamus not only fought his battle with cancer, but also aided his mom in her own battle with the disease. But Seamus' cancer returned, and his family helped him go peacefully.

Courtesy of Teresa Rhyne website.

Rhyne has since adopted two more beagles -- Daphne (another shelter dog) and Percival (formerly Comet, a Beagle Freedom Project alum). She's working on a new book too -- The Dogs Were Rescued (And So Was I). While you can find updates on Daphne and Percival on Facebook, Rhyne's website still bears the mark of that first, spunky beagle who touched her heart.

BEAGLE GOES FOR A CLIMB

A beagle had emergency responders repelling off a cliff in New York in July.

Photo courtesy of WWLP.

WWLP reports Apollo the beagle managed to get caught part way up on a big embankment at Fulmer Creek in German Flatts, NY.

Rescues had to repel about 250 feet down to get Apollo off the cliff and to safety. As you can tell, Apollo was pretty exhausted, and his owner was relieved.

DANIEL THE MIRACLE BEAGLE IS IN THE ROSE PARADE

How many of us have heard the story of Daniel, the beagle that survived a gas chamber at an animal control facility in Alabama in 2011? Daniel is got a new family and is fighting to end gas chambers as an inhumane form of euthanasia. 

From Daniel the Beagle Dwyer's Facebook page.

Well in December Daniel announced on his Facebook page that he would get to ride in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena! Daniel rode New Year's Day on the Lucy Pet Foundation float. The Lucy Pet Foundation works to provide mobile spaying and neutering and adoption clinics all across the country.

Pretty proud moment for beagles!

Hoping for a big year for beagles in 2014. What was your favorite moment?

Adopt a senior pet PLUS Beagle Freedom Project saves 3 seniors

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month.

Have you ever considered a senior dog or cat? So many get dumped after a certain age, because people tire of them, or can't deal with them growing old, or do not want to deal with their illnesses of age.

And sometimes people will pass over an older cat or dog, thinking they would prefer a younger pet, especially a puppy.

But a senior dog or cat can bring joy, even in the short time they have.

Here are 10 reasons, created by Winnipeg Animal Services:

All this month, you'll find promotions to get senior dogs and pets adopted. Here's some Orlando-area promotions this month.

Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue -- All beagles 8 years and older are only $50. Head to their website for pictures, events and more.

Orange County Animal Services -- All this month, no adoption fee for pets 6 years and older. See all the adoptable pets on their website.

As we hear of more, we'll post them here.

And in honor of Adopt a Senior Pet Month, we once again salute Beagle Freedom Project. 

BFP rescued three senior beagles from a laboratory last week: Arthas, Bernie and Hobbes.

Here's Bernie with foster Kya.

 

Arthas learning to love run on grass.

Here's what Beagle Freedom Project said about the dogs:

"Bernie the beagle is now living with a foster family that already adopted another former research beagle (Kya). Bernie and Kya have hit it off, with Kya clearly excited to have a new beagle buddy in the house. She excitedly tries to get Bernie to play and, not surprisingly, he is unsure on how to respond as he has never played with another dog before in his life. While slowing learning normal dog behavior he has taken to his toys and loves to chew his Nylabone and of course sleeping on plush comfy beds and couches with Kya and his foster mom!

"Athras is a boy’s boy. Since his first entry into his foster home he bonded immediately with the 20 year old son that lives at home. He follows him about the house and sleeps through the night with him, all cuddled up. He loves the son’s friends that comes to visit and greets each new friend with a wagging tail. Athras is still a little overwhelmed by the size of his new home and nervously paces and makes circles in the large spaces. He is also slowly adjusting to the sounds of outside and learning that they don’t mean him harm. Athras lives with two other dogs, a pug and a bichon and he watches their silly play behavior with a confused interest. His foster family is taking slow steps with him, patiently teaching him how to be a dog and that he is finally safe now.

"Hobbes is the resilient little member of this trio. Hobbes is acclimating to a home life with quickness. He has made tremendous progress with potty-training, has already mastered the stairs (and loves going up and down), and is bravely navigating boundaries and doggie etiquette with a more senior male dog in the house. Hobbes is also lucky to have another beagle in the house who has assumed the responsibility of being the tour-guide and life coach to his new foster brother. Hobbes is interested in the family kitty-cat, but learned not to get to close. He is also bravely going to dog parks and enjoys meeting the new doggie friends. Hobbes is not wasting time starting his new life!"

Congratulations to Beagle Freedom Project for another successful rescue! 

To help BFP by volunteering, fostering, adopting or donating money, head to the group's website.

Beagle of the Week: Santi of Beagle Freedom Project

We're back from a week of amazing in Knoxville with PetSafe. I will have so much to talk about in the coming weeks. But first, back to business!

Every week I normally spotlight dogs who need to be adopted. I just want to show you an article that really encapsulates the problems in Florida.

According to the Orlando Sentinel article by David Damron, 200,000 pets were euthanized in Florida last year. That's almost half of the pets who enter the shelter every year. The article looks more in-depth at four counties: Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Cats and bully breed dogs make up the vast majority of the pets that are euthanized. Read the article, then head to the counties and see if you can help those animals.

This is Santi, short for Santiago!

Santi was rescued by the Beagle Freedom Project, which means he's a lab research beagle. He was adopted by April Terese Curtis. Curtis has two other dogs too. And before Santi, she fostered Abe and Davey, two other well known Beagle Freedom Project alumni.

 So I asked her the questions about her beagles. Here's what she said:

1) Who are your dogs and how old are they?
I have two beagles and one beagle/basset hound mix. The oldest beagle is Stevie Girl who is 8 years old, then the basset/beagle mix is Isabella who is 7 years old. The little beagle I have is 14 months old and I call him Santi, which is short for Santiago.

2) Where did you get them?
I got both Stevie Girl and Isabella right out of shelters - Stevie came from East L.A. and Isabella came from West L.A.

Santi comes from Beagle Freedom Project, as a rescued lab dog. He has his vocal chords removed by the researchers so he can never bark and he has a long, six numbers tattoo on the inside of his right ear. That is because they do not name these precious beagles, rather refer to them by number. Both Abe and Davey had those numbered tattoos as well but were mercifully still allowed to bark.

3) What's their favorite food?
They love their treats the most! We give them all natural, no preservative biscuits and a product called C.E.T. which stands for clean every tooth. They like their kibble too though - Santi eats so fast and with such gusto!

4) What's their favorite thing to do?
They all have three things in common that they love to do: walking, playing and snuggling with myself and my husband.

5) Favorite toys?
Anything that squeaks and stuffed animals; Santi loves to chew on sticks and many things in the house (I am still training).

6) Do they take part in any special activities (i.e. therapy dog, service dog, spokes dog, etc. )
Stevie is a therapy dog and they all go to the beach at least once per week and on walks each day. Stevie serves the skilled nursing facilities and some children's hospitals in Ojai, CA which is very close to our hometown of Ventura, CA.

7) What's the best part of owning a beagle?
The best part of having a beagle ~ it is all best! They are sweet, friendly, docile little dogs who put smiles on strangers faces and one on mine every day. I love cuddling with them; they feel like velvet. And they are very smart - that amuses me greatly!

8) What's the worst? 
The worst part is knowing that none of them will live that long. I wish, more than anything, that they could be in my life until my life is done. Adding that our basset/beagle was terribly abused when we first got her, she is still shy around strangers but has come such a long way from when we got her in 2009. The power of love transformed her and it was/is a quite beautiful thing to see her experience.

My husband and I always refer to our lives as "before doggies," and "after doggies." Having such loving dogs brings a great deal of unexpected joy. People always stop us on the street; friends pick up beagle-related items for me. They are so sweet and loving with children and even babies - I recall at least three different times when a little baby was presented to Stevie and each time, she would promptly lick them on the face! I have learned to truly live in the moment because of these gentle little souls. They are just always so happy to be alive!

You can follow Santi's journey with her siblings on Facebook! Just "like the Santi of the Beagle Freedom Project page on Facebook.

And, you can join the movement to help lab research beagles have a better life! Head to the Beagle Freedom Project website!

 Check out our previous Beagles of the Week:

• Beagles of the Week: The Tillmans
• Beagles of the Week: The Beaglebratz
• Beagle of the Week: Luna of Beagles and Bargains
• Beagle of the Week: Maggie of Wag the Dog UK
• Beagle of the Week: Bailey of Beagle Photo of the Day

Davey of the Beagle Freedom Project found saf

UPDATE: Call off the dogs, Davey was found safe and he's home!!! Hope to have more details soon.

This is Abe and Davey. Davey is the one on the right with the white face. The two boys spent their lives in a research lab, and were freed by the Beagle Freedom Project. They were adopted by a lovely family in Encino, California, where they live as brothers.

On Sept. 30, something dreadful happened. The gardener, a longtime family employee, accidentally left the gate open and Abe and Davey got out. While they were able to get Abe, Davey disappeared, and neighbors say he was picked up by someone in a blue van.

But this is what happened next.

"Everyone can breathe easier. Little Davey was found this morning around 4:30 AM. He was in a state of panic, understandably, but responded to his Dad’s call and then scooped up and brought home where he is now safe, with Abe, and is resting. 

"The early story about Davey being picked up by a blue van was later clarified. Once a fluent Spanish speaker interviewed the woman who reported this, we realized she saw someone in a van TRY to pick up Davey, but may not have succeeded. With this in mind, a neighborhood canvassing effort was redoubled. 

"A large banner BFP volunteers created and hung over a free-way over pass generated sightings and location tips all night long. Finally at 4AM BFP President, Shannon Keith, fielded a critical call and directed Davey’s Dad to the scene. Davey was visibly shaken but knew his Dad and responded. 

"Thank you to everyone who shared this story, called with tips, personally walked neighborhoods, and literally stayed up all night searching for this sensitive little guy. In times of crisis this community of supporters pulls together like no other. Although this was a stressful 20 hours we were confident this volunteer army would leave no stone unturned until we had our Davey back! 

"Abe and Davey, from our Midwest 10 Rescue, are two of the sweetest and most sensitive beagles – and they love and rely on each other. We are so happy to report they are reunited!"

Everyone give your dog a special hug today in appreciation for this happy ending!

DC beagles free thanks to Beagle Freedom Project

On Monday, seven beagles walked on green grass and got human love for the first time ever.

Photo courtesy of Beagle Freedom Project.

Beagle Freedom Project, the group that rescues beagles used for lab research, rescued seven dogs from a facility in the Washington, DC area on Monday.

The beagles were taken to a home and given their first taste of freedom together. Six were named for the Founding Fathers: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. The seventh, a girl, was named for Dolly Madison.

But this is not the end of their stories. They have a long road ahead of them, including time with foster families who can teach them to be regular dogs. 

Photo courtesy of Beagle Freedom Project.

Shannon Keith, founder of the Beagle Freedom Project, was on hand for the big rescue, which is only the second East Coast rescue for the group.

I spoke to her at the beginning of the year about what it takes to do a rescue. Check out that interview here.

"We have sent a letter to all 380 laboratories across the US that use dogs inviting them to participate in our beagle retirement program," Keith said. "Most companies and universities that have partnered with Beagle Freedom Project have come from a friendly advocate working inside the lab. Although they may disagree with us about the efficacy and ethics of using animals for research, they do share our principle of giving these dogs a chance at a normal life after all they have endured and suffered through for the sake of human products and corporate profits."

In other words, it takes someone who wants to see these dogs in a good home within these labs. Otherwise, these beagles will be killed at the end.

"Each year there are over 70,000 dogs (almost all of them beagles) used for testing in the US," Keith said. "A good many of these dogs are needlessly killed at the end of the research and this should not be."

Photo courtesy of Beagle Freedom Project.

Keith calls that these companies' "dirty little secret." The research done is maybe pharmaceuticals and chemicals.

 What's worse, each year taxpayers fork over millions of dollars earmarked for animal research at government facilities.

Keith said there are things you can do to help Beagle Freedom Project rescue these beagles, not just across the country but around the world.

1. The first is money.
   
   "The rescue missions and veterinary costs can often be prohibitively expensive, but we will never let a laboratory beagle be killed simply because of money," Keith said. "We are always grateful for any donation."
   
   Oftentimes these beagles have health problems after years of experimentation. 
2. People can sign up to be a Beagle Freedom Project volunteer. Supporters can sign up at info@beaglefreedomproject.org
3. Buy and wear our merchandise. So many people have contacted us because they have see a stranger wearing a t-shirt and then looked up their website!
4. Never every buy anything tested on animals. Be a cruelty-free shopper and encourage all your friends and family members to do the same.

To buy cruelty-free items, check out Life With Beagle's Cruelty-Free Guide.

We have sent a letter to all 380 laboratories across the US that use dogs inviting them to participate in our beagle retirement program. Each year there are over 70,000 dogs (almost all of them beagles) used for testing in the US. A good many of these dogs are needlessly killed at the end of the research and this should not be. Most companies and universities that have partnered with Beagle Freedom Project have come from a friendly advocate working inside the lab. Although they may disagree with us about the efficacy and ethics of using animals for research, they do share our principle of giving these dogs a chance at a normal life after all they have endured and suffered through for the sake of human products and corporate profits. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith.html#sthash.vC3W9E2Z.dpuf

We have sent a letter to all 380 laboratories across the US that use dogs inviting them to participate in our beagle retirement program. Each year there are over 70,000 dogs (almost all of them beagles) used for testing in the US. A good many of these dogs are needlessly killed at the end of the research and this should not be. Most companies and universities that have partnered with Beagle Freedom Project have come from a friendly advocate working inside the lab. Although they may disagree with us about the efficacy and ethics of using animals for research, they do share our principle of giving these dogs a chance at a normal life after all they have endured and suffered through for the sake of human products and corporate profits. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith.html#sthash.vC3W9E2Z.dpuf

We have sent a letter to all 380 laboratories across the US that use dogs inviting them to participate in our beagle retirement program. Each year there are over 70,000 dogs (almost all of them beagles) used for testing in the US. A good many of these dogs are needlessly killed at the end of the research and this should not be. Most companies and universities that have partnered with Beagle Freedom Project have come from a friendly advocate working inside the lab. Although they may disagree with us about the efficacy and ethics of using animals for research, they do share our principle of giving these dogs a chance at a normal life after all they have endured and suffered through for the sake of human products and corporate profits. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith.html#sthash.vC3W9E2Z.dpuf

We have sent a letter to all 380 laboratories across the US that use dogs inviting them to participate in our beagle retirement program. Each year there are over 70,000 dogs (almost all of them beagles) used for testing in the US. A good many of these dogs are needlessly killed at the end of the research and this should not be. Most companies and universities that have partnered with Beagle Freedom Project have come from a friendly advocate working inside the lab. Although they may disagree with us about the efficacy and ethics of using animals for research, they do share our principle of giving these dogs a chance at a normal life after all they have endured and suffered through for the sake of human products and corporate profits. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith.html#sthash.vC3W9E2Z.dpu

We have sent a letter to all 380 laboratories across the US that use dogs inviting them to participate in our beagle retirement program. Each year there are over 70,000 dogs (almost all of them beagles) used for testing in the US. A good many of these dogs are needlessly killed at the end of the research and this should not be. Most companies and universities that have partnered with Beagle Freedom Project have come from a friendly advocate working inside the lab. Although they may disagree with us about the efficacy and ethics of using animals for research, they do share our principle of giving these dogs a chance at a normal life after all they have endured and suffered through for the sake of human products and corporate profits. - See more at: http://www.lifewithbeagle.com/2013/02/beagle-freedom-project-shannon-keith.html#sthash.vC3W9E2Z.dpu

Interview: Beagle Freedom Project founder on what you can do to help research lab beagles

To read Part 1, click here.

The day before we told you about the Beagle Freedom Project's latest rescue. We are still getting more details, but so far we know that BFP is getting 10 male beagles from somewhere in the Midwest. They will then find homes and help the beagles become acclimated to life outside of cages. This is Beagle Freedom Project's 11th rescue.

One of the beagles in Beagle Freedom Project's latest rescue.

I interviewed Shannon Keith, founder of the Beagle Freedom Project. I posted part 1 of the interview the day before. Here is the second part of that interview, where we continue the focus on the AstraZeneca campaign, and what you can do to find and help lab beagles by you.

1. Aside from writing the emails, is there anything else people can do to help with [the AstraZeneca] campaign?
   Supporters of the AstraZeneca dogs can do what Beagle Freedom Project is doing and using their ethical malfeasance as an opportunity to talk about the issue. We have done a number of media interviews about dogs in animal testing because of AstraZeneca and influenced countless thousands to boycott AstraZeneca's products and all other products tested on animals. It is our obligation to not let these dogs die in vain, something more profound must be born from it. We will continue our efforts to cajole the company and we are building an international network should one or all of the dogs become available and need homes fast. We at Beagle Freedom Project are also daily inspired by the level of creativity some supporters have in drawing attention to the issue. We encourage supporters to find their own voice instead of this campaign limiting them to email.
2. AstraZeneca's officials keep saying that these dogs can't live normal lives, but you can prove otherwise. Can you walk me through what it takes to get a dog from taking its first steps outside a lab to going home with a forever family?
   We can cite over 100 examples of these “purpose-bred for research” beagles successfully adapting to home life and becoming treasured additions to families. This is the most cynical of rationale we have ever heard. The journey each beagle takes from the lab to the couch is different for each dog and depends on the violence they suffered in the labs. Some of our beagles adapt right away and love people, soaking up as much human affection as they can. Some of the other beagles take much longer to trust and know that they will not be harmed. One of the dogs just for the first time climbed on his adopter's lap, after 8 months of living in her home. The key to their success is a lot of patience and unconditional love.
   
   Beagle Freedom Project has a trained group of foster parents who take the dogs in once they have been released and received their initial veterinary treatments. We work with these fosters closely to assess each dogs progress and personality so we know they when they are ready for a forever home and the right one at that.
3. What can people do to help Beagle Freedom Project, especially if they don't live in California?
   People can help Beagle Freedom Project no matter where they are. First, it should go without saying that we always need financial assistance. The rescue missions and veterinary costs can often be prohibitively expensive, but we will never let a laboratory beagle be killed simply because of money. We are always grateful for any donation.
   
   Second, people can sign up to be a Beagle Freedom Project volunteer. This spring we are going to be initiating a number of nationwide campaigns and asking people from everywhere to help us with this outreach. Supporters can sign up at info@beaglefreedomproject.org
   
   Third, buy and wear our merchandise. So many people have contacted us because they have see a stranger wearing a t-shirt and then looked up our website!
   
   Fourth, never every buy anything tested on animals. Be a cruelty-free shopper and encourage all your friends and family members to do the same.
   [Editor's note: you can find a guide on the Leaping Bunny website.]
4. If people know of a lab with beagles near their home, what can they do to try to reach out to that company?
   If you know of a lab near you that uses beagles in their research and you know someone that works there, get in touch with Beagle Freedom Project and let us help you. Contact us at info@beaglefreedomproject.org
5. Anything else you'd like to add?
   The only reason that these laboratories exist is because they are successful at keeping it their dirty little secret. The more exposure they get, the more susceptible to public scrutiny, and the better the chances at getting legislation passed to end this once and for all.
   
   Please share our organization with everyone. Watch and share the videos and be a voice for the thousands of dogs suffering in labs right now who cannot speak for themselves. 

Some of the beagles in Beagle Freedom Project's latest rescue.

Beagle Freedom Project: Founder talks rescue, AstraZeneca and how you can help, Part 1

We've spoken about both the Beagle Freedom Project and their campaign to help free the AstraZeneca beagles over the last few months.

The Beagle Freedom Project rescues beagles, specifically those who have spent their lives in research labs as subjects. They find homes for these beagles, who have never known a proper home or a decent life. Their success stories are on YouTube, and news shows across the country. Many of you may have seen the videos of the so-called "Spanish 40" taking their first steps out in the real world. In fact, they just rescued a new group of dogs this week. We'll have more info soon.

Spanish 40 beagles on their first night free. Photo courtesy of Beagle Freedom Project.

I spoke with Beagle Freedom Project founder Shannon Keith about the work her group does, the current campaign to free the AstraZeneca dogs, and how pet lovers every where can help their work.

1. How did you get into rescuing research beagles specifically?
   Rescuing beagles from research laboratories came by chance two years ago. My organization ARME (Animal Rescue, Media & Education) had been up and running for about six years and was focused on local Los Angeles rescue work with the over-crowded city shelter system, outreach events for a vegan lifestyle, legal assistance for persecuted activists, banning fur in West Hollywood, and making educational documentaries. A lab tech at a nearby company knew of my work and contacted me with the request I help find homes for two beagles that had been tested on and were to be otherwise killed. I of course accepted these two poor dogs into our program and filmed their release.
   
   The video captured the first 15 minutes of these beagles who were so curious but also so cautious about stepping out of their crates into fresh air, sunshine, and onto grass for the first time. How they gingerly walked, interacted with each other, and slowly warmed up to people whom would not hurt them was heartbreaking yet inspiring. This video went viral, changing the lives of a countless number of people and how they see animal-testing.
   
   From this point on Beagle Freedom Project became a central focus and the rescue, recovery, and re-homing of these mistreated dogs has done more to educate people about animal-testing and cruelty free shopping than anything else I have ever seen.
2. How do you identify companies that have beagles that you might be able to save?
   Companies and universities that use beagles are all registered with the USDA and this information is publicly accessible.
3. How do you approach those companies?
   We have sent a letter to all 380 laboratories across the US that use dogs inviting them to participate in our beagle retirement program. Each year there are over 70,000 dogs (almost all of them beagles) used for testing in the US. A good many of these dogs are needlessly killed at the end of the research and this should not be. Most companies and universities that have partnered with Beagle Freedom Project have come from a friendly advocate working inside the lab. Although they may disagree with us about the efficacy and ethics of using animals for research, they do share our principle of giving these dogs a chance at a normal life after all they have endured and suffered through for the sake of human products and corporate profits.
4. You've been able to save a lot of beagles from research labs. How successful would you be, would you say, in getting companies to turn these dogs over to you and partner groups?
   If we were able to get all the companies to turn over those dogs that did not die from the testing, we could confidently find homes for every one one of them! For example, when Beagle Freedom Project flew the 40 beagles from Spain to Los Angeles we received over 6,000 applications to adopt these little guys. Their plight and their stories of recovery touch a chord in people like few other issues. We are working hard for the day when retiring these dogs won't be necessary anymore because the labs will no longer be using them.
5. How did you get involved with the AstraZeneca case?
   Beagle Freedom Project got involved with the AstraZeneca campaign reluctantly. I say this not because we do not share the goal of the coalition of animal protection groups across the world clamoring for their release, but because we thought we were going to be successful behind the scenes in our negotiations with the drug giant. When the news broke about AstraZenenca's Swedish beagle facility closing down we immediately reached out to representatives of the company. For about two weeks we traded daily emails and phone calls with various key AstraZeneca personnel, in each letter or call we would answer and alleviate a concern or question they had. When it seemed like the company could find no other objection to our program they abruptly cut off communication and we took our story public.



One of the AstraZeneca beagles. Photo courtesy of Beagle Freedom Project.

6. Where does that stand right now?
   Where things stand now are sad. Scores of the beagles have already been cargo shipped to the UK for further testing and will be killed by AstraZeneca at the end of their experiments or die during them. Every one of those beagles you see in those pictures is slated to die, after a prolonged period of poisoning first. We are tremendously disappointed in this company. We shouldn't be surprised, they have a global reputation for dangerous drugs that have killed many and have been sued repeatedly not only by individuals but also states and countries (like the US).

To read part 2 of the interview, go here.