Eighty cows and 18 calves are now under the care of the BC SPCA following a case of animal neglect.
The BC SPCA and the BC Cattlemen’s Association, (BCCA), had previously made several site visits to a property near Quesnel to discuss welfare concerns for the cattle, and had provided a course of action for their owner to relieve the animals’ distress. However, the owner had not complied and the animals were seized on March 24.
“Unfortunately the appropriate steps were not taken and, after an assessment carried out on March 24 by a livestock veterinarian, a decision was made to take the cattle into BC SPCA custody for their protection and welfare,” says BC SPCA manager of cruelty investigations Shawn Eccles.
A warrant was obtained and the animals were removed.
“We are grateful to the BC Cattlemen’s Association and all those who worked in collaboration with us to ensure the welfare and safety of these animals,” says Eccles. “It is encouraging to see agencies come together when animals in distress need our help.”
“BCCA is committed to ensuring that animal care is a primary focus of our producers, and the code of practice for the care and handling of beef cattle is the industry standard for animal care”, says Kevin Boon, General Manager of BCCA. “This is a very uncommon occurrence in the cattle industry. We appreciate cooperation and assistance of the other agencies involved and their work with the producer to help resolve this situation.”
Learn more about the renewed Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Beef Cattle.
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