Wisconsin Dog Breeder Disputes Animal Welfare Violations, Declines $55K Settlement
MADISON, WI — A controversial Wisconsin dog breeding farm has rejected a $55,000 fine from state regulators tied to alleged animal welfare violations, setting the stage for possible criminal prosecution.
DATCP Enforcement Conference
On September 22, representatives from Ridglan Farms — including its owner, manager, and attorney — met with officials from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) at the agency’s Madison headquarters.
The closed-door session was called an enforcement conference. Regulators asked Ridglan to accept responsibility for 311 violations of state animal welfare laws and pay the fine.
According to DATCP, the alleged violations involved:
- Three injured animals observed during inspections
- More than 300 “cherry eye” surgeries performed by unlicensed employees rather than veterinarians
Ridglan Farms, however, refused to stipulate to the violations or pay the fine.
Farm’s Defense
Ridglan argued that because the dogs are classified as research animals rather than breeding animals, the regulations allow a different threshold for humane treatment.
Attorney Eric McLeod issued a statement disputing the agency’s claims:
“Ridglan Farms has been regulated by both federal and state agencies for many years and we have a long history of receiving highly favorable inspection reports. Given that history, we were surprised by DATCP’s recent claims contained in the proposed settlement that do not correlate with their own previous determinations or those of other established animal care experts. We believe DATCP’s claims are both legally and factually inaccurate.”
McLeod also suggested that increased scrutiny may be linked to pressure from groups opposed to animal research.
The farm emphasized that its research is often aimed at developing veterinary treatments, such as vaccines for pet animals, which require testing on dogs before approval for use.
DATCP’s Position
Following the conference, DATCP confirmed that no resolution had been reached.
“A proposed civil forfeiture was discussed at this afternoon’s meeting, and no agreement was reached,” the agency said.
Ridglan Farms was given until September 26 to reconsider. If the company continues to refuse, DATCP will refer the case to the Dane County District Attorney’s Office for potential prosecution.
Possible Criminal Charges
The dispute has already drawn the attention of a special prosecutor, who is investigating whether criminal charges should be filed against the farm. A decision on prosecution is expected soon.
Long History of Controversy
For nearly 60 years, Ridglan Farms has bred beagle puppies for scientific research. The company has frequently been criticized by animal rights groups, though until now it has maintained a record of passing inspections by both state and federal regulators.
The current case marks one of the most serious enforcement challenges the company has faced, raising new questions about how Wisconsin regulates animal research facilities and where the line should be drawn on humane treatment standards.
Stay with ChicagoMusicGuide.com for updates as this case develops and prosecutors weigh possible charges against Ridglan Farms.