Feature-length documentary begins production this month in Wisconsin. The film explores the remarkable story of compassion, courage, and the nationwide movement that gave thousands of laboratory beagles a second chance. Animal rights organizations such as the Center for a Humane Economy, were key elements.
Rocktopus Films has officially begun production on The Ridglan Beagles Rescue, a feature-length documentary exploring one of the most remarkable animal rescue stories in recent history.
Brian Woeller, is an independent producer and former advertising agency producer/director. The film tells the story of the people whose determination and compassion helped change the lives of thousands of beagles bred for laboratory research.
The Ridglan Beagles Rescue examines the extraordinary human response that followed—activists who risked arrest to bring attention to the dogs' plight, rescue organizations that mobilized across the country, pilots and drivers who transported the animals to animal rescue centers across the country, foster families who opened their homes, and adopters who ultimately gave these dogs the loving lives they had never known.
"This isn't simply a story about rescued dogs," said filmmaker Brian Woeller. "It's a story about ordinary people who chose to do something extraordinary. It's about compassion in action, and how thousands of individuals came together to give these beagles a future they never had."
Production is currently underway, with interviews scheduled throughout the Midwest and East Coast. The documentary features perspectives from activists involved in the original rescue efforts, attorneys, animal welfare leaders, adopters, and canine experts who help explain why beagles have long been the preferred breed for laboratory research.
The film also follows the emotional journeys of former laboratory dogs as they experience life outside a cage for the first time—running through grass, sleeping on couches, discovering toys, and learning to trust people.
Woeller, who adopted one of the Ridglan rescue beagles himself, says the project grew from a desire to preserve an important story before memories begin to fade.
"The more people I spoke with, the more I realized this story deserved to be told."
The documentary is currently in production, with principal photography taking place during 2026. A release date has not yet been announced.
Organizations or individuals directly involved in the Ridglan beagle rescue who wish to share their stories are encouraged to contact the filmmakers.