One Year of Freedom
Last year, on this very date, I got to meet Matzah for the first time. He was part of a rescue of beagles from a laboratory research facility in Northern California. Little did I know how much my decision to volunteer for Beagle Freedom Project, an organization that rescues laboratory research animals, would change me for the better forever.
It’s 7pm in the evening and a group of volunteers are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a group of furry little guys. I was one of them. Not sure what to expect from this experience, as it was my first time being involved.
Soon, a van arrived from a long day of travel, carrying 11 scared beagles. I came to understand why they were scared. They had never known anything outside of their cages. They had never walked on grass or played together or felt the compassionate touch of a human.
The world they knew to this point was isolation and pain. They were a number—literally—displayed by the tattoo in their ears (see below). This makes it easier to be tested on. And, the testing I’m talking about isn’t of the life-saving kind. I’m talking household cleaners, new sugar substitutes (Splenda), cosmetics and more.
As I opened one of the crates so that the beagle inside could experience true freedom, I knew my life would never be the same. I watched as each beagle tentatively stepped one paw onto the grass, then the next, uncertain of the feeling, but facing their fear.
I got to witness their break to freedom. The first time they interacted with each other, with toys, with treats, with humans. Some took to play like they were born for it. Others were so afraid they kept to themselves. That was heart-breaking to see.
I was there that night with the intention to foster one of these little guys for one week—and one week only. I was leaving for Christmas and couldn’t take on the responsibility of another dog. I was busy. My business was expanding, I was traveling more…and honestly, another dog would just take so much work and time. He’d have to go through obedience training, and honestly, it would be a long road of recovery. And, I wasn’t ready for that. Or so I thought!
My roommate chose Matzah—the one with the softest fur—out of the 11. We took him home, where he, of course, managed to wiggle his way into my heart. Within two days I knew he wasn’t going anywhere. He had found his forever home.
Call me a sucker, but I call me lucky. This little guy has allowed me to open myself to a greater depth and capacity of loving. I am so grateful for that.
Watching him learn to love to play, eat treats, hang with Lucky (my other amazing pup), go on hikes, snuggle and run free has been such a reward. He has allowed me to see that I’m far more capable, adaptive, courageous and willing than I had imagined. That often times “I’m not ready” is just an excuse. A fear that holds me back. And, I try to remember that now…anytime I find myself buying into the idea that, I’ll be ready when…
Matzah has also gifted me with knowledge and education. Before him, I was completely unaware of what was happening inside of laboratories. I was pretty much clueless. I bought the products that everyone else bought—not even considering how they were made and who/what they may have been tested on.
Now, I’m happy to say I have a cruelty-free household. In fact, cruelty-free is the leading factor in my decision when I buy laundry detergent, deodorant, household cleaners, cosmetics…pretty much anything. I do not want to support a company that at one point may have tested on my boy.
If you are interested in buying cruelty-free, you can learn more here. (FYI – it’s easier than I thought it would be and the products are just as effective, sometimes even better than the other kind. Just look for the leaping bunny or cruelty-free label.)
Also, if you decide to bring an animal into your home this holiday season, please consider adoption. So many beings suffer senselessly in shelters. Sadly, many of them die there, never knowing any kindness. If you’ve ever rescued fur-baby, you know what I’m talking about. There is a bond formed that is irreplaceable. Where both of you are forever grateful.
In the comments below, tell me if you are a rescue owner and what your adoption experience was like.
Wishing you a deeper capacity of love and joy,
Amber