AVMA Calls for Zero Tolerance of Animal Abuse

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., April 29, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A recently released undercover video revealing appalling brutality to calves at the E6 Cattle Company in Texas has driven the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) to publicly underscore its zero tolerance of such abuse by anyone.  

"The frequency with which these videos appear prohibits us from considering them as isolated incidents, or accepting the excuse that the producers were unaware that the abuses were taking place," said Dr. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the AVMA, in both an open letter and a video. "Undercover videos showing inexcusable abuse of food animals highlight the need for more veterinary oversight on ranches and farms, and at livestock markets and slaughter facilities.

"A variety of organizations, including the AVMA, industry groups, humane organizations, and state and federal regulatory authorities, offer guidance to protect the health and welfare of animals used to produce our food supply," added Dr. DeHaven. "Those guidelines, however, are only as good as their implementation. If those responsible for the good welfare of the animals in their care are unable or unwilling to follow such guidelines, then additional oversight is obviously needed."

The AVMA, founded in 1863, is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. More than 81,500 member veterinarians worldwide are engaged in protecting the health and welfare of animals and people. The AVMA is celebrating Vet2011, the 250th anniversary of the founding of the first veterinary school in Lyon, France.

SOURCE American Veterinary Medical Association