Animal welfare organizations have begun relocating approximately 1,500 beagles from a Wisconsin dog breeding and research facility, marking the start of a large-scale animal rescue operation.

The beagles are being transferred from the research business to various shelters where they will be prepared for adoption into private homes. Animal welfare groups are coordinating the complex logistics of moving and housing the large number of dogs.

The first groups of beagles removed from the facility are reportedly adapting to their new environments as they transition from research facility conditions to shelter care. The dogs will undergo health evaluations and socialization programs to prepare them for life as pets.

The rescue operation represents one of the larger animal welfare efforts involving research facility dogs in recent years. Animal welfare organizations continue working to place all 1,500 beagles in appropriate temporary housing before eventual adoption to permanent homes.