GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — About a week ago, the Humane Society of West Michigan took in 12 beagles from a research facility.
These dogs lived their entire lives in wire cages, in a room with no windows and a concrete floor.
Now, they’re getting a chance at a new life.
Exploring the dog run and artificial turf is still a new experience for these beagles.
Not too long ago they were living in small kennels, but that changed thanks to “Teddy’s Law.”
“Previously, any research facilities that were using animals for tests did not have to put their animals up for adoption once tests were complete,” said Winnie Walsh, director of development and marketing for HSWM. "But with this new law, research facilities are required to put any animals that are deemed to be adoptable, safe to go into a home environment, up for adoption and they have to partner with a reputable shelter.”
Ashley Dahl, the director of community programs, is fostering the 8-month-old beagle, Bagel.
“We see dogs like Bagel that come from research facilities, or even shy dogs in general, generally do better with a friend because she's learning how to dog through my dog. So, she's watching what they're doing. She's learning and that's generally when these guys do best," Dahl said.
While some of the dogs are adjusting quickly, others may need more time to acclimate to their new normal.
“You see the light kind of come into their eyes and they get excited when you really see them realize that they're safe and they're outside and they can run around and they can play. It makes a dramatic difference," Walsh said.
The shelter has trained behavior specialists who will work with adopters who need to have patience and understanding with their new family members.
“Definitely research the breed, because the breed itself is pretty independent and they can be a little stubborn, follows this everywhere they go, and one of their best features is their quality to adapt and their quality to adjust," Dahl said.
Meanwhile, Bagel has discovered the comforts of living in a home.
The bed is her favorite spot.
“It brought tears to my eyes, just to see her warm up so fast and then she found her first toy, and that was precious. She looked at it like it was a foreign object. She's like, 'This is the best thing ever,'" Dahl said.
Bagel’s life and those of her siblings are forever changed — and you can make an impact too, through adoption.
The beagles range in age from five to eight months old.
It will still be a few more weeks before they are medically and behaviorally cleared.
You can fill out an application now to adopt one, here.