Humane Society says video shows abused livestock

By Christopher Doering

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Humane Society of the United States on Wednesday released new video taken at animal auctions in four states that showed sick and injured cows lying on the ground, and called on the U.S. government to prevent further cases of animal abuse at similar facilities.

The video, taken by the Humane Society during April and May in Maryland, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Texas, showed downed cattle lying on the ground with no human assistance for several hours, and in one case the animal was left outside without food or water during the night.

In all instances, the Humane Society said, the treatment amounted to animal abuse. The group said they could not determine if the animals ever entered the food supply.

Unlike slaughter plants that are overseen by inspectors from the U.S. Agriculture Department, there is no regulatory presence required from state or federal officials at interstate markets such as auction houses, the group said.

"There is a gap in the regulatory process. No one is watching. No one is taking responsibility for these animals," Wayne Pacelle, president of the Humane Society of the United States, told reporters.

The evidence was presented to Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer last week. Pacelle said the group urged the USDA to close a "loophole" that allows downed cattle to be slaughtered in rare cases while expediting rules to require more humane treatment of animals.

"Since learning about this investigation, we are reaching out to states and industry groups to address this issue," said Schafer. "In my conversation with the Humane Society last week, I expressed my sincere desire to work with them."

Beef from downer cattle -- defined as an animal too ill or injured to walk -- is generally not allowed in the food supply. The rule was adopted as a safeguard against "mad cow" and foodborne diseases. Meat packers are required to alert USDA veterinarians of downer cattle so they can decide if the animal can be slaughtered for food.