AVMA Condemns Abuse of Calves Shown in New Video

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., April 20, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Upon viewing deeply disturbing new footage showing calves being abused at a Texas cattle farm, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) today strongly condemned the cruelty and issued a call for stricter adherence to humane animal handling standards.

The AVMA labeled the abuse, which includes calves being beaten with pickaxes and hammers, as barbaric, inhumane and unacceptable.

"What is depicted in this video is totally inexcusable and way outside of existing standards for the humane care and handling of livestock," said Dr. W. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the AVMA. "If this is an accurate portrayal of what took place at the farm, we would encourage regulatory authorities to impose the most severe penalties allowed by law."

The undercover video, recorded at E6 Cattle Co. in Hart, Texas, was shot by the animal rights group Mercy for Animals.

Dr. Gail Golab, director of the AVMA's Animal Welfare Division, emphasized the association's zero-tolerance approach toward animal cruelty.

"Those handling animals are obligated to do so properly," Dr. Golab said. "The AVMA and its members have worked diligently to get good animal care practices implemented and will continue to do so. In particular, the AVMA has clear guidance for conducting euthanasia. Unfortunately, that guidance is only as good as the facility's commitment to implement it—we've taken our responsibility seriously and we expect them to do the same."

"AVMA policy clearly states that anyone who deals with animals has an obligation to stop—and prevent—all forms of cruelty toward animals. What was portrayed in this video is totally inconsistent with our recommendations," Dr. Golab added.

The AVMA urges law enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and to prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.

The AVMA has long-standing policies addressing the appropriate care and handling of animals used for agricultural production. They are available for review at www.avma.org/issues/animal_welfare/policies.asp.

The AVMA and its more than 81,500 member veterinarians are engaged in a wide variety of activities dedicated to advancing the science and art of animal, human and public health. Visit the AVMA website at www.avma.org for more information.

SOURCE American Veterinary Medical Association