Sign the petition to stand with the Dane County Board of Supervisors as it stands up for the dogs of Ridglan Farms.
In August, we told you about Resolution 119: a proposal introduced by members of the Dane County Board of Supervisors that calls on Wisconsin’s Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to revoke Ridglan Farm’s commercial dog breeding license.
This Thursday, October 23rd, that resolution will come to a vote.
After months of work and a barrage of spin by the animal research industry, the Board will finally be deciding whether to take a formal stand against one of the most prolific dog suppliers to U.S. research labs—and with the dogs they exist to commodify and harm.
And, here’s some good news: Resolution 119 hasn’t weakened in the face of industry opposition. It’s grown stronger.
Since its introduction, the resolution has been amended to spell out even more damning truths: not only is Ridglan the subject of an active state animal cruelty investigation and facing 311 documented violations of state law, but Ridglan’s lead veterinarian has now had his veterinary license suspended.
It also now declares that dogs are “sentient beings that deserve care, respect, and ethical treatment.” A legislative body acknowledging nonhuman animals as sentient is rare, though essential–and it’s a direct rebuke to industries built on their exploitation.
Finally, and critically, Resolution 119 calls on DATCP “to review Ridglan Farm’s practices and the allegations of violations of law”—which include its own 311 findings of animal neglect and physical harm—and, if it “determines that Ridglan Farms is unfit to operate a dog-breeding facility or has engaged in violations of applicable laws,” to “immediately revoke Ridglan Farms’ commercial dog breeder license….”
Revocation of Ridglan’s state-issued dog breeding license would prevent Ridglan from continuing to breed and sell dogs for research. It would be huge.
But, even if Resolution 119 passes and DATCP still fails to act—still declines to revoke Ridglan’s license—there is real power in the resolution’s passage. It would set a precedent that the animal research industry is desperate to avoid: if one legislative body is willing to call for animal exploiters to be held accountable, others can, and will, follow.
The upcoming vote is certainly about holding Ridglan accountable. But, it’s also about more.
It’s about a community building political will, inspiring its leaders to stand with the humans (and nonhumans) they’re sworn to protect—and against businesses and violent practices that directly harm everyone.
Your Call to Action: This is our moment to show up. Let’s stand with the Board as it stands up for the dogs.
If you live in Dane County, please contact your Supervisor before Thursday. Tell them you reside in Dane County and ask them to vote YES on Resolution 119.
No matter where you live, show your support for Resolution 119 by adding your name to our petition, which will be delivered to the Board before it votes.
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