More rescued beagles arrive at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter

More rescued beagles have arrived at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. The arrival comes after a first wave of 16 dogs arrived at the shelter in early August.

The floppy-eared, tail-wagging beagles come from the Envigo research facility after a judge ordered the facility to relate the dogs due to their inhumane treatment. The facility bred the dogs to be sold to laboratories for animal experimentation.

"Our newest ten are all boys, and they were quiet and well-behaved on the drive back. Once back at the shelter they were so happy to stretch their legs, play with each other, and get lots of attention from shelter staff,” said the animal shelter.

Reasa Currier, the director of the animal shelter, says that the new beagles are not available yet. They will be neutered but should be available later this week.

The first wave of beagles were adopted “immediately and are thriving in their adoptive homes,” Currier said. The shelter had “lines out the door of potential adoptors” for them.

The shelter is working with the Humane Society of the United States to bring the dogs to temporary shelters for adoption.

State Sen. Jennifer Boysko, a Democrat representing the 33rd district, is expected to attend a welcoming today for the beagles at the shelter. State legislators recently signed policies — known as the beagle bills — to protect dogs and cats who are bred for research.

This is likely the last wave of beagles that will be available for adoption of the 4,000 that were rescued.