U.S. Department of Agriculture alleges dozens of violations at Envigo facility housing 5000 dogs
A major breeding facility that ships thousands of beagles annually to researchers was cited for dozens of alleged violations of the Animal Welfare Act in reports published last week.
The alleged details of this shocking and disgusting story from the US highlight why animal ethics committees should enquire and continue to enquire about animal suppliers. A long history of good conduct is no guarantee of future conduct. Exposure to sunlight is a great disinfectant.
USDA inspectors documented more than 300 puppy deaths in the previous 7 months that Envigo attributed to unknown causes and did not investigate. Inspectors wrote that they found 15 animals with undiagnosed illnesses and untreated injuries at a facility that employs one staff veterinarian for 3000 dogs and 2000 puppies. Inspectors alleged that 71 dogs were euthanized after dogs in neighboring enclosures pulled their ears or tails through the caging and bit them. Forty-eight additional dogs bore fight wounds and three more had been found dead from fight wounds, according to the report. The facility employs 39 people, a ratio of one employee for 128 dogs.
