This video of laboratory research dogs being introduced to the outside world is absolutely heartbreaking. In a good way, like Free Willy. I clutched my 2 dogs and bawled my eyes out watching it.
These poor beagles had spent their entire lives in small cages. Never smelled fresh air, never felt the warm sun on their backs, never felt grass under their paws, never ran free in a big open field. Never felt the love and comfort of a good snuggle.
The rescue volunteers brought the dogs to a park and opened their cages, and the dogs just sat there looking apprehensive. They weren’t sure what to do. It’s like watching a learned helplessness experiment. They don’t have any concept of escape because it’s never been an option. Seeing that just broke my heart. Eventually one of them took a tentative step out of his cage and started sniffing the grass. The others slowly came out too. They all looked a bit unsteady on their legs.
When they were back in the van, there’s a shot of one of the beagles snuggling with one of the volunteers. It’s the most beautiful thing; the look on his little face…he’s just in absolute bliss to finally have some much-needed affection.
As a doggie momma, I can’t imagine someone keeping dogs captive in little cages to test cosmetics, drugs, and household products on them. So cruel and completely unnecessary. No dog should have to go through that. This video is a good reminder to seek out cruelty free products.
But really…why is this shit legal?
Today I’ve been meeting all kinds of interesting and inspiring folk at 
