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Research Watchdog Releases Internal NDSU Documents; Calls Sheep Deaths
Negligent; Demands Federal Probe FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE National Research Watchdog Releases Internal NDSU Documents; Calls
Sheep Deaths Negligent; Demands Federal Probe FARGO, ND – SAEN, A National Research Watchdog organization has
announced the release of grisly post mortem records for sheep who died
at North Dakota State University. “Recent sheep deaths at NDSU have been caused by septicemia, toxemia,
and even gangrene,” said Michael A. Budkie, A.H.T., Executive Director,
SAEN. “These deaths indicate inadequate veterinary care, and potential
negligence” An examination of records for over 30 sheep who died at NDSU in the
last two years reveal many instances of abscesses (some burst),
suppurative bronchopneumonia, meningoencephalitis, and other infectious
diseases. One pregnant female sheep died when her offspring died and
rotted in utero. Serious questions have been raised about the quality of veterinary
care given to animals within NDSU’s research facilities. “The severe
bacterial conditions which killed dozens of sheep do not develop
overnight,” added Budkie. “Where were the NDSU vets? None of these
records mention any veterinary treatment whatsoever.” SAEN has filed an official complaint with the USDA Western Regional
Office, demanding an investigation of the deaths of dozens of sheep at
NDSU. Government reports reveal that NDSU had over 20 separate AWA
violations in a six month period. Animals at NDSU were denied veterinary
care, and the deaths of sheep were termed “minor deficiencies” by NDSU
Animal Care Committee members. Additionally, NDSU was fined $12,218 by
the USDA in late 2007. The approximately 2 dozen infractions included lack of a qualified
veterinarian, use of drugs which had been expired for as much as 8
years, untreated animal deaths, and numerous violations by the NDSU
Animal Care Committee. All NDSU internal documents are available upon request. -30-
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