People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has released a video depicting repeated instances of blatant abuse on an Iowa sow farm. The video is receiving both local and national press attention. It was recorded by an undercover PETA employee working on the farm from June to September of this year. The veterinarians overseeing management of the farm are AASV members; they are extremely concerned and actively taking measures to correct the situation. The AASV, working in concert with the National Pork Board, has been active in meeting with the farm owners and managers to address the situation on the farm, and in answering questions from the media regarding the video and swine welfare.
The farm depicted in the video was recently purchased by a family-owned farm operation with over 30 years in animal agriculture. They expressed surprise and outrage over the images of animal mistreatment in the newly-acquired farm in a press release dated September 17. The press release went on to say that the operation’s management, “does not and will not tolerate the mistreatment of any animals under our husbandry and we take these PETA allegations very seriously.”
Farm management met with PETA representatives and committed to investigating the incidents, terminating the employees involved and taking action to correct “this inexcusable situation as quickly as possible.” They also committed to a review of farm procedures by an independent animal handling expert and to revise any procedures that are not consistent with the operation’s policies and generally-accepted standards for the treatment of farm animals. In addition, employees will receive extensive training on the proper treatment of animals on their farms and the management will evaluate the effectiveness of video monitoring equipment.
AASV members may receive calls from local media requesting comment, and are encouraged to contact AASV for support and talking points. Members are also welcome to refer media personnel directly to the AASV for comment: Tel: 515-465-5255 or E-mail: aasv@aasv.org.