Nonhuman Rights Project

This May, the Nonhuman Rights Project is honoring Endangered Species Day by amplifying the urgent needs of the world's most vulnerable individuals: nonhuman animals who suffer greatly from human exploitation with little hope of relief because our legal system fails to recognize their fundamental rights.

Throughout the month, we’ll shine a spotlight on the lives of the nonhuman animals at the heart of our work. We will revisit historic courtroom milestones, provide unique insights into our active litigation, and share exciting updates about what’s ahead in 2026.

It’s vital we address the issue of animal rightlessness when discussing conservation or endangered species, because rights are what protect against intolerable wrongs—no matter who you are. And for those at risk, time matters. The question of whether the law will recognize nonhuman animals’ fundamental rights remains urgent. Justice cannot wait.

We look forward to sharing more updates with you this month! Until then, will you help us accelerate the pace of justice?

Donate to support our work and the fight ahead in 2026: https://bit.ly/4dkEYrF

🚨Breaking news: Animal rescue groups have agreed to buy nearly 1,500 beagles from Ridglan Farms, a notorious Wisconsin dog breeding and research operation.

Last year, a judge found probable cause that animal cruelty was occurring due to conditions and practices at the facility. This year, the Nonhuman Rights Project and the Animal Activist Legal Defense Project filed a habeas corpus petition on behalf of the Ridglan beagles. The petition sought recognition that the beagles have a right to be free from unlawful cruelty and that the court should exercise its common law authority to protect them.

“We are deeply relieved by reports that nearly 1,500 beagles will be leaving Ridglan Farms. The world rallied for these dogs including activists and organizations from across the animal protection movement.” - Christopher Berry, NhRP Executive Director

While this is a developing story, it is undeniably the result of a massive, collective effort. We are profoundly grateful to the many advocates and organizations whose tireless work made this outcome possible.

As we continue to navigate next steps, we look forward to sharing more details on our case in the coming days.