Current Press Releases

Sick and Dying Animals Seized in Cruelty Case Brought to Farm Sanctuary

Orland, CA- October 16, 2003 - Numerous sick and dying animals seized by San Diego Animal Control officers were brought to Farm Sanctuary in Orland on October 15.

The animals, including cattle, goats and pigs, were seized from an individual Animal Control Officers believe specializes in buying and reselling diseased and debilitated livestock. Numerous animals, including a young calf without a hoof, significantly lame animals, and one blind calf, were so severely debilitated they had to be euthanized.

The attending veterinarian, Dr. Daniel H. Grove, D.V.M., who worked with animal control to assess the animals, stated in his report that general housing conditions were very poor, and there was a lack of care for the animals, resulting in abuse. Grove stated, "I believe it was in the best interests of these animals to have Animal Control step in and remove them from the custody of the owner."

The owner of the animals, David Aguilar, has been served with a citation and cruelty charges are pending. Aguilar allegedly purchases sick, diseased or injured farm animals from area stockyards and auctions, and attempts to resell the animals for a profit.

The surviving animals, including eight goats, six calves and one steer, were taken to nearby foster homes for immediate veterinary attention before being brought to Orland. The animals are suffering from pneumonia, parasites, malnutrition, and other ailments, and will receive veterinary treatments and care. After the animals have fully recovered, Farm Sanctuary will look for safe, permanent homes for the animals. Individuals interested in adopting the animals as companions may contact Farm Sanctuary at 530-865-4617 or e-mail shelter@farmsanctuary.org for an adoption application.

Farm Sanctuary appreciates the work of San Diego county law enforcement officials in this case and anticipates an effective prosecution. There is a growing recognition in the U.S. that farm animals, like all animals, deserve protection under the law, as evidenced by this case.

About Farm Sanctuary
Farm Sanctuary is the nation's leading farm animal protection organization. Since incorporating in 1986, Farm Sanctuary has worked to expose and stop cruel practices of the "food animal" industry through research and investigations, legal and institutional reforms, public awareness projects, youth education, and direct rescue and refuge efforts. Farm Sanctuary shelters in Watkins Glen, N.Y., and Orland, Calif., provide lifelong care for hundreds of rescued animals, who have become ambassadors for farm animals everywhere by educating visitors about the realities of factory farming. Additional information can be found at www.farmsanctuary.org or by calling 607-583-2225.