Alexandra Paul
Alexandra Paul @thealexandrapaul/Instagram

A group of animal rights activists, including former Baywatch actress Alexandra Paul, were arrested after entering a dog-breeding site in Wisconsin and removing beagles in what organisers described as a 'rescue'. The incident took place on 15 March 2026 at Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds, a location long targeted by campaigners for its role in supplying animals for research.

The Dane County Sheriff's Office said dozens of protesters unlawfully entered the property, with approximately 20 people taken into custody. Authorities described the event as a break-in involving damage to fencing and buildings, while activists said the action was necessary to prevent further harm to the dogs.

According to local reporting by WMTV, between 50 and 60 protesters entered the premises and removed more than a dozen dogs. Officials said some animals were recovered at the scene, while others remain unaccounted for.

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More than 50 activists broke into a beagle breeding facility outside Madison on March 15, taking 23 dogs to an undisclosed location. More than 20 people were arrested. Activists have been trying for years to shut down Ridglan Farms, which breeds beagles for research. To settle a state investigation last year, the farm agreed to surrender its license to sell dogs for research by July. The facility will remain open and can continue breeding dogs for its own internal research. A spokesperson for Ridglan Farms said it is relying on state and federal authorities to help them retrieve the dogs. Read more at the link in bio. 🎥: Footage provided by Wayne Hsiung and Curtis Vollmar animalrights beagles dogs wisconsin

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'Open Rescue' Operation

The protest was organised as an 'open rescue', a tactic used by activist groups in which participants publicly document their actions without concealing their identities. Video shared online showed individuals wearing protective clothing carrying dogs from the site.

Authorities said tools including pry bars and saws were used to gain access. The sheriff's office also confirmed that vehicles and equipment believed to be connected to the incident were seized during the operation.

The group said the aim was to remove dogs they believed were at risk. Some of those arrested later told reporters they viewed the action as nonviolent intervention, while acknowledging they had entered private property without permission.

Ridglan Farms' Response

Ridglan Farms, which breeds beagles for scientific and veterinary research, has faced sustained criticism from animal welfare campaigners. The company has previously agreed to stop breeding dogs for research by 1 July 2026 as part of a settlement with local authorities.

A spokesperson said the activists' actions caused damage and involved the forced removal of animals from a regulated site. The facility maintains that it operates within federal guidelines and supports research, including the development of treatments for animal diseases.

The case has also drawn attention to wider legal debates over animal research and the use of direct action by campaigners. Authorities have urged individuals to pursue concerns through lawful means.

Alexandra Paul's Involvement

Alexandra Paul, 62, best known for her role as Stephanie Holden on Baywatch, was among those arrested. Records cited by TMZ show she was booked on a trespassing charge following the incident.

Paul has previously been involved in animal rights activism and has faced legal proceedings linked to similar protests. Speaking after her release, she described herself as an animal rescuer and said she had travelled to Wisconsin to take part in the action.

Her involvement has brought additional attention to the case, with supporters saying it highlights concerns about animal welfare, while critics argue such actions undermine legal processes.

Future of the Ridglan Beagles

The investigation remains ongoing, with those arrested expected to appear in court at a later date. Authorities have not confirmed how many dogs remain missing following the break-in.

Activists have said they intend to rehome the animals that were removed, while continuing to campaign against animal-based research. Ridglan Farms, meanwhile, is expected to continue operations until its breeding activities end under the existing agreement.

The outcome of the case is likely to shape how similar protests are handled in future, particularly where activism intersects with criminal law and animal welfare concerns.

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