12 Beagles' Homeward Journey

12 Beagles' homeward journey has led them to the safety of the Norfolk SPCA.

Dear Friend of the Norfolk SPCA,

Monday, our team traveled to Richmond to assist with the transfer of 12 Beagles from a group of 33 removed from a research breeding facility in Virginia. This group of Beagles is part of a much larger initiative to save nearly 400 dogs - giving them the opportunity to experience the life every companion animal deserves with a loving family and compassionate home.

When we received the call to help with the Beagles, our Adoption Center was at capacity filled with wonderful pets waiting for their special adoption day. Because our shelter and clinic facilities are small we have learned to be adaptable and use all of the resources we have available. The Norfolk SPCA’s ability to join this collaborative rescue effort is unique, for without our Veterinary Clinics and medical HOPE Fund, we would have been able to provide help. Turning our backs on these Beagles’ tragic lives was just not an option.

In the US, approximately 60,000 dogs are held in laboratories each year. Of the dogs that are used for breeding and research, a large majority of them are Beagles. Change is necessary and we are here to do our part no matter how long or arduous of a process is to improving animal welfare legislation that protects the innocent. Click the link below to learn more about what our state is doing to protect dogs like these beagles.

Learn More about the Rescue Effort

Virginia Coalition for Beagle Protection

33 dogs awaiting transport in Richmond.

CARE Team Members Rachel and Kassie share a moment with newly arrived Beagles.

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

HOPE is the Best Medicine

Our cost to support their complete medical care and housing over the next several weeks will run in the thousands of dollars. The good news is the Beagles are in overall good health – some will need dental care, and a few will need treatment for injuries to their paws. All will require patience, guidance and love to build their genuine trust and renewed HOPE in humans.

Like us, we know that you will be there for the Beagles. The Norfolk SPCA relies on the generosity from friends like you to help every pet that comes into our shelter. HOPE is the best medicine of all. Give a gift in any amount to the HOPE Fund today.

Give a Gift of HOPE

Animal Care Manger Lexi and Medical Care Manager Nicole examine a Beagle.

Ask any Beagle owner about the personality traits of Beagles and you are sure to hear the words friendly, sociable, and affectionate. Beagles make friends fast and they love connecting with humans and other animals. We have rescued 9 girls and 3 boys, ranging in age from one to seven years old. They are stoic and brave little dogs weighing between 19-29 pounds. Each will require understanding and patient homes who are ready to guide them through this transition with help from the Norfolk SPCA CARE Team.

As our committed partner, you would be proud of how motivated our CARE Team is to welcome and comfort our newest residents. The pictures in the photo gallery below share their story from our journey to Richmond, a warm welcome at the Norfolk SPCA, a night of rest in their large clean kennels, and a full day of spay/neuter surgeries and intake exams - only made possible by donations to our HOPE Fund.

Give a Gift of HOPE

We look forward to sharing their photos and more information in the coming days. Adoptions will be made by appointment. We will provide adopters with transition and training tips, medical history, counseling and the essentials you will need to start your lifelong friendship with a rescued Beagle. For more information, please email aboyd@norfolkspca.org. For now, we are grateful to provide them a safe haven before finally having a place to call home thanks to your generous support of the HOPE Fund.

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The Norfolk SPCA would like to extend a special thank you to Sue Bell, Executive Director Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, for her extraordinary work in getting these Beagles into the homes they deserve. Thank you always for your kindness and support of the animals.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Kimberly J. Sherlaw, MSW

Executive Director

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