“His tail was wagging, and we were just so excited.”
For most dogs, playing with toys and going for walks are everyday joys. But when Yvonne Horan first adopted her beagle, Barkley, he didn’t know how to enjoy these simple pleasures.
Barkley had spent five years in an animal testing lab. After his retirement, Horan adopted him from Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary, the only U.S. sanctuary dedicated to rescuing former research animals.
Horan isn’t sure about the specifics of Barkley’s life in the lab, but she knows he endured a lot, as almost all of his teeth were removed.
“He didn’t know what treats were … He didn’t know how to play with our other two dogs,” Horan said.
Instead of focusing on Barkley’s past, Horan prefers to look forward.
“We try not to dwell on the past,” Horan said. “Instead, we focus on giving him the best life possible for the rest of his days.”
Since adopting Barkley two months ago, Horan has been patiently introducing him to new experiences like walking on a leash and being picked up. Her other two dogs have been excellent “role models” for Barkley.
Barkley’s new siblings have been particularly helpful in teaching him how to play with toys. Horan’s other beagle, Arthur, enjoys bringing toys from inside the house to the backyard. At first, Barkley just watched Arthur’s toy play. Gradually, he began sniffing the toys and, one day, he spontaneously started playing with one.
“He grabbed the toy and ran around the backyard, looking so happy with his tail wagging. We were thrilled,” Horan said.
Horan hopes that by sharing Barkley’s story, more people will become aware of the ongoing use of beagles in testing and be inspired to support animals in need of homes after such experiences.
“There are still dogs out there going through this who need homes afterward,” Horan said.
Fortunately, Barkley now enjoys a loving home and has become quite skilled at playing with toys. While some might say he’s lucky to have found such a patient and supportive family, Horan feels differently.
“We’re the ones who are really lucky,” she said.