Nelly the Rescued Beagle has Survived Life in a Lab, Being Shot and Cancer, But Her Little Tail Has Never Stopped Wagging (VIDEO)

When most people think of lab animals, they imagine rabbits, mice and other small rodents. While these poor creatures are subjected to many cruel tests in the U.S., many people are surprised to learn that dogs and cats are also used for testing in this country. Beagles are commonly used for pharmaceutical testing. Given their docile and loyal nature, these trusting dogs find themselves subjected to laboratory testing.

The use of beagles is largely hidden from the public, and sadly when testing is completed, these dogs are often “disposed” of by the facilities who keep them. Beagle Freedom Project is working tirelessly to change this practice in the U.S. and raise awareness for lab animals.

Nelly, the beagle, was rescued by a concerned citizen who had found a crate of dogs on the side of the highway. It was discovered that the dogs had all been shot and whoever dumped them assumed they were all dead. One, however, was still alive and hanging on for dear life. All three dogs had numbers tattooed into their ears, indicating they had been used in the animal testing industry. This Good Samaritan contacted Beagle Freedom Project and Nelly was immediately brought to an emergency vet.

In addition to a number of other health issues indicative of the abuse she had experienced in a testing facility, the vet discovered Nelly had cancer. This resilient little beagle is receiving treatment, and has proven to be quite the fighter. Despite all the horrors she has known in life, Nelly’s tail never stops wagging and she is endlessly loving and affectionate towards her new caretakers.

According to Beagle Freedom Project, “Nelly’s federal ID tattoo fits the profile of a breeder supplying several Florida research laboratories.” They are currently investigating Nelly’s case to see if they can find the person responsible for her undue abuse.

In a research lab, Nelly was nothing more than a number, but now she is finally being treated with the care and respect that she deserves. No living creature should ever have to endure the suffering Nelly has known.

To learn more about Beagle Freedom Project, click here. To make a donation to help fun Nelly’s care, click here.