The world of animal testing is rife with suffering and cruelty for the defenseless subjects. Most people assume that only rabbits and mice are used for the bulk of tests, but beagles are frequently used as well. In laboratories and testing facilities, these dogs never get the chance to lead the typical life a dog would. Instead of a warm bed and a loving family, lab beagles are subjected to cold, concrete cells and the prodding hands of researchers.

These dogs are favorites of the pharmaceutical industry, used to test the toxicity of different chemicals and compounds. In addition to testing on beagles, some facilities even remove dogs voiceboxes to keep them from making too much noise. Tragically, when dogs are done with their trials, they are usually put down. According to the American Anti-Vivisection Society,  between 70,000 and 75,000 dogs are used for research in the United States each year, and the majority of these animals are beagles. While this is incredibly heartbreaking to learn, the good news is there are many organizations working to put an end to animal testing and give former test subjects a better life. Take Beagle Freedom Project, for example. This awesome organization works to arrange for the release of beagles, and other animals, once their tests are over. Once these animals are free, they help rehabilitate them and find good, loving homes for them. Most recently, they helped rehome one lucky beagle with none other than Miley Cyrus!

Miley Cyrus is a long-time animal lover and has become a vocal advocate for animals of all species. She has a whole gang of rescued animals, recently announced that she went vegan after recognizing the intelligence of a pufferfish, and has spoken out against trophy hunting. Now, Cyrus has taken another noble step for animals in choosing to adopt not just any rescued dog, but a former lab beagle.

Cyrus announced her new adoption on Facebook, writing, “Happy to introduce the newest member of my family Barbie Beagle Freedom Project #stopanimaltesting #donttestonbeagles“

Looks to us like Barbie is settling into her new home quite nicely! 

Cyrus and Barbie celebrated Fourth of July together – toasting to this little cutie’s new-found independence. 

Not only has Barbie gotten a new loving home, but she’s also become an awesome advocate for other beagles and lab animals thanks to her famous mom! We applaud Miley for choosing to adopt a former lab beagle and promoting awareness for the suffering of animals in labs and research facilities. Together we can help make a better future for all animals, where unnecessary testing no longer exists.

To learn more about Beagle Freedom Project, click here.

All image source: Miley Cyrus/Facebook