WASHINGTON - This morning, The Humane Society of the United States, at the request of the Craig County, Oklahoma, Sheriff's office, deployed its Disaster Animal Response Team to help assess the needs of over 1,500 sheep, cattle and goats allegedly starved near Vinita, Okla. These animals were reportedly living without adequate food or water access. Severe winter weather is complicating local relief efforts and threatening the lives of these animals.
The HSUS Disaster Animal Response Team working in conjunction with the HSUS Southwest Regional Office expect to be on scene early on Friday, January 19, to offer aid to the Craig County Sheriff's office while they investigate any neglect charges against the owner.
"Our team will support the Sheriff's office by providing immediate care to the animals while assessing the condition of the livestock to determine the best course of action for their care," remarked Randy Covey, director of disaster services for The HSUS. "With the severe winter weather, it is difficult for the Sherriff's office to accurately calculate how many animals are affected by this situation."
Lou Guyton, Southwest regional director of The HSUS, said, "Two veterinarians are at the ranch assisting with care and assessment. Local residents are donating hay. The Sheriff's office ordered pellet feed. And the local fire department broke up ice on the ranch pond to provide water for the livestock."
The Humane Society of the United States commends the Craig County Sheriff's office and the Oklahoma State Veterinary Board for their swift action on this case.
Further information about the animals' condition should be available after the team assesses the situation tomorrow.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization with nearly 10 million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, marine mammals, animals in research, equine protection, and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy and field work. The nonprofit organization is based in Washington and has field representatives and offices across the country. On the web at www.humanesociety.org.
