The planned rescue of beagles at the Ridglan Farms facility in Wisconsin has started earlier than expected, with activists beginning their action one day ahead of schedule.
Hundreds of people have gathered near the site, and more are expected to arrive. Organisers say the goal is to remove dogs from the facility and bring them to safety.
The action is described as non-violent, but participants say they are prepared to face arrest.
Attorney and activist Wayne Hsiung had announced the rescue for Sunday, April 19, but activists have gathered at the facility on Saturday.
Live footage from the scene shows activists moving towards the facility as the situation develops. The livestream is being narrated by former Baywatch actress Alexandra Paul, who supports the campaign.
The rescue follows weeks of rising tension around the site. Animal rights groups say the dogs are being kept in poor conditions, while the company denies wrongdoing and says it operates within the law.
A smaller rescue in March saw activists remove several beagles, although some were later returned by police. The rescue of today is expected to be much larger, with organisers aiming to remove up to 2,000 dogs.
Authorities are preparing for the situation, and police are present. Officials have warned that entering private property without permission could lead to criminal charges.
If successful, campaigners say this could become one of the largest “open rescues” of animals in the United States. The outcome remains uncertain as the operation continues.
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