06/02/2026
🐾The Story Behind Our Latest Design: Why 100% of Proceeds Are Going to Beagle Freedom Project
-By Ellie Hansen, Florida Keys Beagle Founder & Artist
I remember that morning twelve years ago perfectly. I was sitting at my computer, sipping my coffee and scrolling through Facebook, when I witnessed my very first video showing the realities of animal testing on beagles. I had a beagle named Max at the time, and I was horrified to the point of tears and rage. That day changed everything for me. It introduced me to the Beagle Freedom Project (BFP) and the incredible work they do to rescue these dogs and end testing labs for good.
Driven to act, I applied to adopt a former research beagle, beginning a decade-long journey of advocacy. Over the years, I welcomed three survivors of animal testing into my family. One of these beagles, Marty, was born at Ridglan Farms. Back in 2014, almost no one knew Ridglan Farms existed. Today, the whole world does, thanks to the tireless dedication of thousands of activists and animal welfare organizations.
After overcoming severe trauma, Marty went on to live nine wonderful, happy years with us. He truly left his past behind, filling our lives with adventure before passing away peacefully from old age in 2023.
So, when I received an invitation from Beagle Freedom Project to assist in the rescue of 500 beagles from Ridglan Farms in mid-May, I didn’t hesitate for a single second. I went in memory of Marty, and for every dog just like him.
The next day, I bought a plane ticket from Miami to Madison, Wisconsin, to join this massive undertaking.
Over the three days I spent carrying beagles from BFP’s rescue bus to safety, I witnessed so many unforgettable moments of first-time freedom. But one middle-aged male beagle completely stole my heart while sitting in my lap.
He was so terrified, holding himself as stiff as a board in my arms. I wished I could instantly erase his fear, but I knew healing would take time and immense love. We were sitting on a chair near the barn door, which was wide open to a beautiful, sunny, breezy afternoon. As the wind wafted through the space, I noticed him staring out the door, completely mesmerized. He was overwhelmed, yet staring in absolute wonder at the sky, tracking the blue expanse and the moving clouds. It looked as though he was desperately trying to figure it out.
And then it hit me: This was the very first time this dog had ever seen the sky.
I choked back tears. It was a profound reminder of something so simple that the rest of us take for granted. To witness his very first view of the world outside is something I will carry with me forever. Nearby, birds were singing—sounds he had never heard until that exact moment. I whispered to him how wonderful and beautiful it was out here, promising him that he would see it all very soon.
This experience is the inspiration behind our latest design, "Free the Beagles."
This Special Edition tee beautifully bridges our signature tropical style with a powerful message of hope. It celebrates the exact moment a rescue beagle steps out of the shadows and into the sun on green grass for the first time. The bluebird in the artwork symbolizes joy, hope, and renewal during times of transition. This piece is a wearable symbol of sanctuary, safety, and the bright new chapter every single dog deserves—as well as a message to the world that it is time to end animal testing.
Best of all, 100% of the proceeds from this special edition shirt are donated directly to Beagle Freedom Project to help them continue their vital work rescuing beagles from Ridglan and other testing facilities worldwide.
👉THIS SHIRT IS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE LINKS BELOW:
https://tinyurl.com/Free-the-Beagles-Tee-for-Women
https://tinyurl.com/Free-the-Beagles-Tee-for-Men
