Sep29
Land O'Lakes Supplier's Owners Charged With Cruelty
Posted at 07:34 AM | Permalink
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Comments (78)
Today, PETA unveiled footage from our five-month undercover investigation of a filthy factory dairy farm in Pennsylvania that supplies milk to St. Paul–based Land O'Lakes, the largest seller of branded butter in the U.S.
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Our investigator documented abuse and neglect of cows and calves at the facility, including that cows who were in terrible pain and resisted standing were electro-shocked and jabbed with the blade of a pocket knife in an effort to force them to move and that sick and injured cows were left to languish—often so weak that they couldn't even get out of their own waste—for days and even weeks without veterinary care. In one case, workers were told to wrap an elastic band around a cow's gangrenous, infected teat in order to "amputate" it. The cow's condition deteriorated for 11 days before she finally died.
It is a violation of Pennsylvania law to neglect animals, deprive sick and injured animals of veterinary care, and deny animals clean and sanitary shelter. Charges against the farm's owners have been approved and filed by a local magisterial district judge. The factory farmers are innocent until proven guilty, of course, but they would face up to 90 days in jail and $750 in fines if convicted.
We have also called on Land O'Lakes to buy milk only from farms that meet our 12-point animal welfare plan, which would prevent much of the suffering we documented at this farm.
For those of you who can't stomach the thought of eating butter after watching that video, take a minute to tell Land O'Lakes to implement our 12-point animal welfare plan. Then check out one of the many vegan butter alternatives that are widely available. My personal favorite is Earth Balance margarine. It's 100 percent vegan and free of trans fat (and pus), and it tastes even better than butter. Best of all, it's also 100 percent free of cruelty to cows and calves.
Posted by Alisa Mullins
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How anyone can read this and not be moved. We have to let manufacturers know we will not use thier products until they become more concerned about the welfare of the people and animals that make it possible.
Sending an e-mail is easy.
Posted by: Mary Rapp | September 29, 2009 08:26 AM
I never buy Land O'Lakes anyway, although I think Captain D's uses their butter.I have found some in my bag when I've order a baked potato. I don't use it. This is just horrible.So degrading. Makes me so mad. I hope this jerk gets it good in court! Thanks PETA for exposing what goes on.
Posted by: Tammy | September 29, 2009 08:37 AM
These people are going to Hell.
Posted by: NT | September 29, 2009 09:03 AM
My hat's off to the brave person who spent so many months in this place, laboring on these poor animals' behalf. It must be devasatating to see first hand such misery and indifference on workers' parts. I hope the person sees the fruits of their hard work and realizes how many people's minds this will change. The dairy industry hasn't drawn the scrutiny that the pork, poultry and egg industries have--and that's going to change with this. Congrads PETA and investigator alike!
Posted by: Deaner | September 29, 2009 09:17 AM
What is wrong that these inhuman brutes get away with a $750. fine if the case wasn't so serious it would be funny, and why are the vegans plugging their products on this serious case of blatant cruelty, I just don't understand the American people who let these things happen Ruth. Western Australia
Posted by: Ruth Bell | September 29, 2009 10:04 AM
This is disgusting! I only buy Land O'Lakes and will switch to another brand. You telling me you can't keep better track of you farms that provide your milk? Hogwash, you just can't be bothered, as long as you get the money!
Posted by: Dawn | September 29, 2009 10:32 AM
I just avoid dairy altogether. Can't stand margarine so I skip that too. I use mild salsa on baked potatoes.
Posted by: Rev. Meg Schramm | September 29, 2009 10:47 AM
I am vegan so I don't buy this kind of product but I will pass this one ot everyone I KNOW! Sick!
Posted by: Mylissa | September 29, 2009 10:50 AM
Oh boy, here we go again. The love I have for these animals and to see them suffer day in and day out like this is very disheartening. There is no need to continue to put these gentle beings through this life of hell anymore!! Don't consume the stuff, we don't need it. Our bodies were not meant for it. Untill all this madness stops then there will be peace. Put the animals raised for food where they should be non-existent.
Posted by: Carla* | September 29, 2009 10:51 AM
I have one thing to say: DO TO THESE SO CALLED HUMANS WHAT THEY DO TO THE ANIMALS!!!!
I have my cows that die a normal death -Get help with vets ALWAYS-An I DONT EAT MEAT!! I rescue them and every other type of animal. They have MORE feeling then some people.
Posted by: Debra Stronkowsky | September 29, 2009 11:01 AM
This is an outrage! How can anyone in thheir right mind, with any love or compassion in their heart, do this to animals! Very sadistic! HOW can these workers live with themselves after what they have done to these precious animals? I can't even imagine the horror and pain these animals felt during this. How sad. When is the cruelty ever going to end? God help us to change.....
Posted by: Kathy Marie | September 29, 2009 11:38 AM
Question. Are these Amish dairy farms?
The Amish are the number ONE puppy mill breeders in Pennsylvania, and reports of farm animal abuse have b een rampant.
Posted by: Taylor | September 29, 2009 12:55 PM
Well, PETA, I'm broke but another donationis headed to you.
Thank you for this gut-wrenching investigation. My deepest thanks and compassion go to the investigators who had to be silent and capture this senseless, callous cruelty day after day.
I don't have a clue what's in store for the human race in the future, but I honestly can't conceive of a loving god allowing mankind to continue treating His creation so horribly much longer.
These innocent beings certainly don't deserve this miserable life.
Please!people, don't just write and complain, if you're not yet "vegan" make that change today.
I pray all those suffering creatures are now whole again, free, living in peace and comfort--never to be harmed again.
"Our lives begin to end when we remain silent about the things that matter". ~Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Posted by: Susan T | September 29, 2009 01:07 PM
I love Peta and everything they do is wonderful, but i cry so hard watching these video's. this is so sad and it goes on and on. i wonder how these workers sleep at night. i agree with the post. they are all going to hell, no joke, all the animals are Gods creatures and i have asked many times about the eating of meat, i believe God did supply us with food, but he did not or does tolerate the abuse.i wrote to land o lakes and i will never ever buy their stinking products again.
Posted by: Rebecca King | September 29, 2009 01:38 PM
Which Pennsylvania farm did the abuse occur? We have a Land O Lakes operation here in Bradford County in Pa.
Posted by: Pat Scala | September 29, 2009 01:59 PM
Kathy you asked" How can anyone in their right mind, with any love or compassion in their heart, do this to animals"...The answer is simply...these worker have no compassion or love for these animals. it takes a very dark sadistic person to stomach the abuse every day...which is exactly why these workers need to be exposed. Whether you go vegan or not, the conditions and medical neglect and abuse will continue till we get the media to expose it and get major attention. I don't know why PETA isn't calling on CNN, FOX, Even Nancy Grace., she loves to argue for a good cause.
Posted by: mellissa | September 29, 2009 02:08 PM
I am Vegan so i do not need to worry but i will fight to stop all this suffering and the the abuse.
Posted by: John Carmody | September 29, 2009 02:12 PM
THIS IS A DISGRACE AND SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED I WILL NEVER SHOP FROM THIS COMPANY AND CHEERS TO THE PEOPLE THAT BROUGHT THIS TO LIGHT...STRONGER LAWS ARE NEED FOR POOR EXCUSE OF PEOPLE LIKE THESE..
Posted by: nina | September 29, 2009 02:39 PM
What kind of people can do this? Can you imagine, do they go up to the farmhouse and have a nice meal with their families? This is unconscionable. I signed the email and added personal comments. I have been struggling with giving up dairy products even though PETA's article about the Downed Cow caused me to become vegetarian (I have the picture of the cow and the article on my refrigerator), but NO MORE. I'm going home tonight and throw out every single dairy item I have in my refrigerator. Did you notice how huge the poor cow's udders are? Also, I'm going to contribute a monthly donation to PETA even though I'm barely making it. God Bless the undercover investigators for doing this work. Got Milk? Not anymore ever.
Posted by: Eden Courtney | September 29, 2009 02:40 PM
I want much more to be done to punish the people who are involved and perpetrating this horrendous treatment,
Who are the people, where are the farms?
Please post their addresses so WE the PEOPLE can figure out how to shut the down.
Make this story a national news event, much more worthy than most of the human interest stories that are on every night,
Posted by: Christina Knapp | September 29, 2009 03:07 PM
Incredible. I thought that the U.S.A. was a place where civilized people had kindness towards the animals......IM completedly wrong.
Someone has to have the power to stop this disgrace.....
Who can help?
Butterfly.
Posted by: Anne | September 29, 2009 03:24 PM
This sad story is repeated all across America every day. The Dairy Industry in general is cruel. Even the best organic farms require a lifetime of intense milking, separate the babies from their mothers at birth, and force the cows to live short lives and never nurse their own babies. you still see babies in hot isolated containers on the organic farms that are destined for veal. There is no humane milk farm in America. Its better for you and better for the cows and better for the environment to skip the butter, chesse, milk and find healthy alernatives. Raw sesame tahini can be used to make a vegan milk or butter for baking. Try fruit puree and almond butter in place of butter, try rice milk in place of cows milk, try sliced raw veggies in place of sliced cheese. Try roasted sliced veggies in place of melted cheese for a savory dish, even pizza is great this way. Just Say NO to Dairy. If you suffer from sinus headaches, skin rashes, or constipation you will find the no dairy diet an effective and rapid cure. If you feel sad about this story use that emotion to motivate youself to try a week with out dairy. It will change your outlook entirely. Give the gift of Love to the Cows by refusing to buy any and all dairy. Then send a message to the Dairy Council letting them know you are going dairy free...they love that. It makes their Happy Cow campaign so much more meaningful when you realize just how far from reality they are trying to take consumers.
Posted by: Joanna | September 29, 2009 03:25 PM
Susan T.
This is not from God. It is the devils kingdom, the table of satan as it is refered to in the Bible. People forget, we are in a war between good and evil and there is a prescribed amount of "time" until that final hour when the devil will made a footstool for Christ.
Oh HAPPY DAY.
Posted by: Saucy | September 29, 2009 03:27 PM
I think this is totally disgusting and wrong!Them people should definetly get what they deserve, how can someone in there right mind do these cruel things to these poor animals. It just makes me sick.
Posted by: Aimee | September 29, 2009 04:14 PM
PETA rocks. Every damn dollar I can muster each month is going to you guys. This is SO important. I can't thank you enough for doing what you do. These poor cows. We really can pressure these companies by boycotting their products. And whomever posted the great idea about seasoning things like potatoes with spicy sauce is genius!
Posted by: Ann Coccagnia | September 29, 2009 04:20 PM
This is just sickening. I've sworn off dairy products from today forward and written a personal email to Land O'Lakes. I also went on Dr. Oz's website to ask him to write to them himself, since while on the OPRAH show he recommended Land O'Lakes "I can't believe it's not Butter" for a healthy substitute. Who wants to eat healthy at the expense of the cruelty and suffering of these poor animals. Not Me. I hope this campaign from PETA will work fast to expose these farmers and I really hope they are punished far more severely than the PIG farmers were. We need more well publicized cruelty stories like the Michael Vick dog fighting story with more severe punishments for such crimes. We need it to make front page news to send the message that this cruelty won't be tolerated. I will certainly be passing this info on to people I know.
Posted by: Pat Gauvreau | September 29, 2009 05:25 PM
PETA, You encouraged me to go vegetarian with your video "Meet Your Meat" and I have been a vegetarian for almost two years now. Because of this new footage, I can assure you that I will now be vegan. I have no excuse for why I haven't implemented a vegan diet until now, but I will not be complicit in the crimes that happen on dairy farms any longer. Thank you for, once again, prompting me to face the reality that eating animals products or by-products is 100% contradictory to my belief system. What was I thinking when I made the change, but continued to eat cheese? Even calling my own self out on this, I fail to see humans as the most intelligent of species.
Look for my resume! I have to do more to assist your organization in ending these daily assaults on animals.
Thank you for being there to educate myself and others about what really goes in inside these horrific death camps!
Posted by: Michael Essi | September 29, 2009 07:33 PM
Ugh. I'm getting to the point where I am no longer shocked by these videos, though my heart breaks every time. I find myself saying, "I'm so sorry" to the animals on the screen. I do hope that PETA is making EVERY EFFORT to try and get this footage into the mainstream media. If you care about animals, the best thing you can do is vote with your dollars and go vegan. Animals are not here for us to use any more than we are here for them to use. We are all sentient; we all have the ability to feel happiness, joy, misery, torture and tremendous pain. I have lost my faith in humanity because so many people just look the other way in order to justify the consumption of meat, dairy, and eggs. It is just despicable.
Posted by: Lauri | September 29, 2009 07:55 PM
my problem is even if I go vegan, this kind of unacceptable cruelty to living, feeling mammals will continue unabated! The problems that capitalism and production create seem to large and overwhelming to stop. I have to sadly conclude that extreme actions and violence is the only solution ! I hope this is printed, because I say this only because I am overwhelmed with anger and serious grief.
Posted by: christopher | September 29, 2009 07:57 PM
I physically could not stand watching this whole video. Vegan butter, here I come.
Posted by: Jessica | September 29, 2009 08:12 PM
can PETA confiscate the animals or close down the operation?
Posted by: lisa | September 29, 2009 09:03 PM
Such beautiful beings being treated so poorly... It pains me to see the sadness and fear in their eyes and the callous actions of the farm workers. This is a wake-up call to all who have said, "Milking a cow doesn't hurt, they like it" PETA has once again shown us that if an animals is involved for profit, they will SUFFER. Thank you PETA and to the brave whistle-blower who had to watch this horror show and do nothing. Go Vegan!
Posted by: Shelly | September 29, 2009 09:18 PM
I am sick of people getting a slap on the hand when they hurt and abuse these poor animals , I really hope that they change the laws , these companies are in the wrong and they should all go to hell for what they are doing . they need to put a stop to this ASAP .
Posted by: Lisa | September 29, 2009 10:07 PM
Hi Guys,
I went into Land of Lakes website and emailed my concerns to them about the treatment of the cows. Just google Land of Lakes and you will find them. I also sent an email from PETA too, but thought the more stuff the better.
Peggy Lea
Posted by: Peggy Lea Sterkin | September 29, 2009 10:54 PM
Tofutti makes a really good dairy free pizza as well as all of their dairy free ice cream products. If your grocery store doesn't carry it ask them to order some. Almond cheese, rice cheese, soy cheese are really good on your lite life meat free products or tofurky with veganaise.
I like vanilla flavored rice milk and soy milk. Almond breeze is very good also.
Dairy is awful. If your having trouble getting off it, I suggest keeping some photo's around to remind you of how horrific the dairy industry truly is.
Posted by: Saucy | September 29, 2009 11:42 PM
this is sicking i can belive thjis is happing i live in pennsylvania and iam very upset about this they to be punissed the fullist extent of the law and have the same done to them what they did to those poor cows or any miss treated animl
Posted by: cindy | September 30, 2009 12:28 AM
Recommend RICE cream or Soy cream to your friends.
Everybody I know likes it.
Posted by: Brad | September 30, 2009 12:30 AM
when I saw this video, I immediately felt such sadness for these cows
I can see in their eyes the fear and agony, I can feel it to
many of us are taught to feel and believe that cows and many animals
are so different from us, but they are not
if you adopted a cow, a pig or a chicken -any animal really and
if you spent time with them and gave them love and care
you would grow to love them as you do your dog, cat
or any loved one including humans..
have some courage to watch this video
these are real living intelligent caring beautiful beings being put through hell and turning away from this video wont make the reality and fact of these sick horrific unnecessary evils go away
watch it so you can know the truth
and than be aware so you can DO something against it and help stop this
I have been a Vegan for a long time and known of animal cruelty
animal cruelty NEVER gets easier to watch or know about
it rips your heart out and leaves your mind reeling with utter shock
that such evil sick torturous experiences exists
but they DO and they won’t stop until we do more than just feel
bad about it, you need to take a stand
Posted by: simara delilah rose | September 30, 2009 02:53 AM
I am so tired of reading about God's animals being abused like this. How the hell can someone have the nerve to treat animals like this? How do these so called men sleep at night??????? I became a vegetarian about 5 months ago after viewing how sickening human beings treat animals. I will NEVER eat meat again! We need tougher laws so that these kinds of things do not happen anymore.
Posted by: carla | September 30, 2009 08:13 AM
I am a dairy farmer. My cows are my life. I assure your readers that not all farmers even come close to keeping their cattle in the condition that these people did. They do not need to produce food for anyone if they can do no better than this. It is outrageous, and its hard for me and my fellow farmers to be bashed, but I also know that these people should never have been allowed to ship milk under these conditions.
Posted by: Mike the Farmer | September 30, 2009 11:01 AM
Here is the news story - this farm does look like this, I can attest to it!
http://newsitem.com/news/ex-worker_peta_cows_at_shamokin_township_farm_neglected
Posted by: Anon | September 30, 2009 11:48 AM
I agree this is something no animal should suffer through but people need to remember this is not the norm. You can't judge the industry as a whole on a few bad operations. My neighbor owns a family dairy and his cattle are treated exceptionally well. I have also worked in the dairy industry and know that most dairies are clean well run facilities with the animals health and comfort being a priority. Please don't lump the majority of those doing it the right way with the few that don't!
Posted by: Pete | September 30, 2009 12:54 PM
I also want to thank the person who filmed this. How hard it must have been. How brave to expose these cruel, cruel, people.
Posted by: Helen Gaynor | September 30, 2009 02:51 PM
This is truly horrible and inhumane but I have to thank PETA and their undercover agents tireless efforts to expose this disgust and lead to a prosecution. I can not imagine how strong those UCA have to be to tolerate seeing the immense suffering of these animals.. I don't think I could handle it, I'd truly break down and cry on the spot.
Posted by: kayla | September 30, 2009 02:54 PM
"90 days in jail and $750 in fines if convicted."
THATS IT??? Can we please write to someone so they face more serious consequences.
Posted by: kj | September 30, 2009 03:04 PM
These animals must think humans are monsters. And they would be right.
Posted by: Pamela Ernest | September 30, 2009 03:28 PM
Don't just get mad at the farmers....get mad at the people who continue to drink milk and/or use dairy products. Where there is BIG demand (and money) there is supply through MASS production.
Don't just boycott their products, challenge your thinking and beliefs about eating animals and using animal products. It's unhealthy and nothing about it is natural......
Posted by: Tamra | September 30, 2009 05:15 PM
This type (and any type for that matter) of animal abuse makes me sick. This company needs the product from these cows to make money and they treat them like they're nothing - like they have no feelings or can't feel pain. I will NEVER buy a Land O' Lakes product EVER EVER again.
Posted by: Maureen Malek | September 30, 2009 06:04 PM
Thank you PETA for all your great work. This farm should be more than willing to be monitored in the future if it wants to stay in business. What other farms are out there that Land o Lakes uses? Thank you also for the link to products that are better choices.
Posted by: Deborah Myers | September 30, 2009 06:19 PM
This is the worse possible treatment that should never happen to any animal. I would like to take these workers and put them in their own fecal matter and leave them for days and days and once a day give them a good electrical shot. Let them feel & see how they lose their thrive for survival.
How could anyone treat an animal with so much hatred. If you don't have any feelings for animals cow to pigs to any kind of animal you should not BE WORKING WITH THEM. THE FINES AND JAIL TIME IS NOT ENOUGH SHAME ON THE JUDGE AND COURTS!!!
Posted by: Marlinda Kepler | September 30, 2009 08:06 PM
This is why I stopped looking at these horrible pictures and videos, know I wont be able to sleep tonght, but I am truly grateful to see investigators doing there jobs to uncover this type of horrible crimes commited to God's beautiful creatures.
Posted by: Joanne Marie Sevigny | October 1, 2009 12:56 AM
How on earth can you do his to Gods creation? One day you will be held accountable for ure actions, may you never have to suffer like these helpless animals!!!
The same punishment must be done to all who is accountble for cruelty to animals!How do you sleep at night knowing of calfs lying in pain in fhilthy pens? Dont you have a heart, is money and production all that matters to you? May God show mercy on all, but I woudnt,Luckily our God is forgiving God!! Do you even read all the comments, why cant you care for the animals who is making youre bussiness? How would you feel if youre wifes nipples are tied with a rubber band and just left to rot off?You are sick people just out for a few bucks,
Sleep tight Judgement Day is coming,dont ask then why not me?????????
Posted by: Maritza | October 1, 2009 01:58 AM
these people should be punished in such a way that they should know how these poor babies have suffer
Posted by: akash | October 2, 2009 01:09 AM
I just showed my husband this footage, he was disgusted just as i was... He commented on why arent there state regulations? Like some sort of inspection carried out on these establishments? We have that here in Australia..
I feel such sadness for those gorgeous gentle creatures, who we owe so much too..
and what do we give them as a thanku? a one way trip to the abbatoir, nice one hey...
Stop this terrible practise, bring in tough legislation for any animal establishments and keep it well run and maintained.. Make sure every dairy is inspected on a regular basis.. no ifs, buts or maybe's allowed.To see the last gorgeous cow with that afterbirth trailing from her, as she could hardly walk was one of the saddest things i have ever seen..
Kindness must rule here..
Peta, once again you have done a great job, i just feel so sorry for the poor guy/girl who had to witness this horror.. I would probably have thumped both that farmer and his stupid son..
..Australian animal lover..
Posted by: Marea Gray | October 2, 2009 08:39 AM
$750 fine - that's a slap on the wrist - I'd like to see these people do prison time -they need to be locked up so they don't simply go work on another factory farm. In this day and age, it's absolutely disgusting to see animals treated so terribly. I can't stand watching the videos as they affect me to the point of feeling ill for quite some time. It has to stop. Thanks PETA for all you do and I am glad to support you.
Posted by: Christine Curtiss | October 2, 2009 01:30 PM
I wasn't able to watch the video, knowing I would break down, not being able to sleep for months. I'm no religious person, please do not judge me
for this. My opinion is it is all about money!!! The people
who work in such places must be MONNSTERS, just like anyone
who is able to hurt ANY animal
PETA please make this a news
story, PLEASE. It has to be
possible to change laws regarding any animal abuse, the punishment for animal abuse is still a "joke", not enough is done to really stop
such "humans" (for the lack of
words I wrote humans). Where is the logic in going & spending who really knows how much for wars, flying into space while the most peaceful
creature on earth suffer daily
& cannot defend themselves?
The 90 days in jail/#750.00 punishment will not do a damn
thing, it will be paid, they
will laugh about the small price they had to pay & it will go on with the abuse...!!
Until we all understand animals are living creatures,
who never started a war, & do not care about flying to the moon for they are gentle nothing will change. I'm sad to be a human when I hear of such horrible treatment of animals! Our president should
spend some time caring for such stories PETA shows instead worrying about the next Olympics in Chicago. Sorry, I'm pissed & I hate any
individual who hurts animals.
Posted by: Angela | October 2, 2009 01:51 PM
I'm horrified and ashamed to find out that this was going on in my own back yard! No this farmer was not Amish, but they are sad excuses of what people do in the name of money. I agree the fine does not fit the crime. It's nothing more than a slap on the wrist. Growing up on a farm myself I can say that this type of practice NEVER ! happened to our animals.
Posted by: A horrified neighbor | October 2, 2009 02:55 PM
I called the company and expressed my feelings. I hope I didn't sound threatning, o'well they deserve anything to come their way.
Posted by: The Siant | October 2, 2009 05:46 PM
It's a good thing I am not anywhere near that farm, because it would probably end up being in the news what I would do. I'd be going right down there right now and flailing on a few of those dairy farmers heads. They wouldn't look very pretty by the time I had left there, let me tell you.
Posted by: JR | October 2, 2009 09:32 PM
Horrible, horrible. A very sick world. God forgive us.
Posted by: Lauren | October 3, 2009 12:10 AM
I don't eat meat anymore because of cruelty to animals. If we don't stop cruelty to animals what hope do we have of stopping cruelty to humans? I've distributed this video and will continue to do so and be vociferous about cruelty until it stops. May take forever but we have to stop this.
Posted by: Patricia | October 3, 2009 12:50 AM
Simply unbelieveable!! To me, this matches the horrors suffered by those in the German concentration camps and Japanese prison camps to our Soldiers who were captured at the start of WWII. I wish I could say or do something to help these poor Creations. This boggles the mind thinking what horrors humans (or so-called humans) can do!
Posted by: Mrs. Lois Koch | October 3, 2009 02:34 PM
I AM DISGUSTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AND WIL NEVER EVER EVER BUY FROM LAND O (TORTURE) LAKES AGAIN! I WILL ALSO PASS THIS INFORMATION ON TO EVERYONE I KNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: DENISE | October 3, 2009 02:38 PM
If people abuse a cat or dog they can go to jail for up to 7 years, yet chickens, cows, pigs are treated like crap! I hope all the people who abuse these animals come back as those animals in their next lifetime so they can feel the pain they have given these poor precious animals.
Posted by: Allyssan | October 4, 2009 05:03 PM
I would like to know if Peta has removed the sick cows from the farm? Is possible to close the farm? What will happen with the cows? Did they sent a vet to look after them? Thanks
Posted by: Flavia | October 5, 2009 11:29 AM
These "people" deserve to be treated as these innocent animals have been.
These "people" will surely burn in hell.
Posted by: rachella | October 8, 2009 06:23 AM
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!! Land O'Lakes Supplier's Owners Charged With Cruelty!!!
I found this video truly disturbing! I am letting my clients know about the site...THANK YOU PETA for, not only investigating but for revealing this HORRIBLE TRUTH!!! OMG! I signed the Petition a couple of weeks ago, when I first saw the video.
I grew up on a farm...my favorite cow was 'Rosunka'--a name we chose for her. She was beautiful and I learned how to milk her from my Grandfather--back then it was 'manual'--LOL. I loved her. I can NOT imagine the horrors we saw on this video tape! I hope PETA continues to keep us updated on this issue...I am no longer buying anything produced by Land O'Lakes!
Posted by: Linda Michaud-Wehunt | October 13, 2009 01:11 PM
oh my GOD. how on earth do these people live with themselves. they do realise ANIMALS HAVE FEELINGS!!!!!!!! they should be treated like that and would they like it? no i didnt think so. well now they know how the poor, INNOCENT cows feel.
all people who do this should be shot!
Posted by: Jasmine Chen | October 15, 2009 06:16 AM
Until the court system comes up with a better punichment for such blattant cruelty, nothing will change. I agree that the farmers should be put in a 4 x 4 cage, covered in fecal matter and urine, given the occasional electrical shock and perhaps a milking machine connected to vital part of their body. We are all God's creatures, great and small. Your treatment of animals is a reflection of you.
Posted by: jeanine | October 15, 2009 05:18 PM
Pete, actually most dairy "farms" are just like this. Some are not. How can people know unless you actually go investigate... What brands did the suppliers work with of the places you have actually seen and feel are acceptable? I feel that is information a lot of people should know, for those who just don't have the willpower to give up milk. I always encourage buying local. I buy meat and eggs for my dogs from a local farm where I can go see the animals. They are all outside in grass, with access to shelter. It's very nice. I'm always suspicious of places in which I can't see the animals for myself. If you don't want to support "farms" like this, it's best to just assume the animals are mistreated, until you know for sure.
Posted by: Rachel P | October 21, 2009 05:10 PM
i totally agree with jeanine that your treatment of animals is a reflection of you. flesh and blood is flesh and blood they feel pain and discomfort just like us. im sure they wouldnt enjoy being tortured and forced to live in disgusting conditions such as those day after day.
Posted by: mitchell | October 23, 2009 12:13 AM
There's no way Congress is going to outlaw dairy consumption*, but I agree with that 12-point plan.
*Remember Prohibition? Take something away that people have always had and you turn ordinary folk into criminals.
Posted by: MH | October 27, 2009 02:39 PM
I have been a vegetarian since 1997. After watching several such documentaries on the mainstream media (ABC, NBC, CBS) I just couldn't take it anymore. But here lies the total hypocrisy. A person found to neglect dogs/cats is put behind bars for umpteen years and these monsters get away with $750 fine? Cows are next to mothers because they provide humans with their milk. The so called ORGANIC farms do the same, in fact almost all dairy producers dish out similar treatment to their dairy producing animals and what to speak of the slaughter houses? In our quest for food, we have descended in to sub human forms. We even eat genetically altered fruits and vegetables without knowing the consequences while the producers line their pockets with enormous profits. The authorities do not wish to disrupt the food supply henece will take minimal action. So it is really entirely up to the consumer now.
Posted by: Vijay | October 29, 2009 01:42 PM
Check out the typical LEGAl HOGWASH from the accused Land of Lakes, the squeaky clean company !Go to:
http://www.flex-news-food.com/console/PageViewer.aspx?page=26338
What can PETA do or has done since the total denial??
Posted by: Vijay | October 29, 2009 05:13 PM
Outrageous, dear Lord come back and stop this needless, senseless, horrible mistreatment of your entities. I wonder how these (I hate to call them people) would like to be at the hands of people who are like they are....To be unable to escape, to be tortured with no respite? These poor suffering animals spend every moment of their lives with nothing, just rape them for what they can bring in financially. Just think of being asleep, awake, every moment in wet, hot/cold, miserable condition with no respite in sight. ALL animals love their babies, and they are so intelligent, they just can't speak what their thoughts are, and I farmed for 35 years and know. They all... my chickens, hogs, cattle, sheep, ducks, geese...ALL knew their names and loved their young. Probably more so than most people. Animals, squabble and yet take care of each other with licks, nudges and such. It's phenomenal to see them care for each other.
A neighbors cow died out in the field and when it got buried the rest of the herd stood around where she was buried and bawled for 2 days!!! So that tells you animals KNOW and are not impervious to their herd cohorts feelings!! This cruelty is going on in puppy mills, dog fights, stallion fights (over mares introduced into the penned area..horrible!!) cock fights, bull fights, as well as in other food industries (animals for food) chickens, hogs, lambs, and others. It's disgusting. I think we can eat meat...BUT PLEASE raise it with compassion and thoughts of what that animal is having to give up. The native americans upon killing an animal for food gave thanks to their god and to the animal for giving up it's life!!!
Posted by: Rose | October 30, 2009 02:01 PM
Lets help this poor animals please go fur free and we all know meet its good but just look how this animal are being treated please help them they're just like us
Posted by: Nanis | November 2, 2009 06:30 PM
I wrote to Land o'Lakes and this is the response I received. It is shameful!
My letter to them follows their response. This company is as "compassion-less" as the dairy owners. Please! stop consuming dairy products and if possible, go vegan. It is beyond my sensibilities to understand how any human being could make such animal suffering a routine part of doing business.
consumeraffairs@landolakes.com to me
show details 1:14 PM (1 hour ago)
Thank you for visiting the Land O'Lakes Web Site.
Regarding the claims made by PETA of animal cruelty at a Pennsylvania dairy farm that is owned and operated by one of our members, Land O'Lakes has investigated the claims. To view the outcome of this investigation, please click on the following link: http://landolakesinc.com/utility/news/company/ECMP2-0092225.aspx
Land O'Lakes is strongly committed to the proper care and humane treatment of animals, and we take any claims of animal mistreatment extremely seriously. Land O'Lakes does not own cows. Our milk supply comes from members who are independent owners and operators of dairy farms. We take any claims related to animal treatment very seriously and are looking aggressively into this situation.
Land O'Lakes supports efforts to develop national sound animal care guidelines and to urge producers to adopt these guidelines to ensure humane treatment of animals by all segments of the agriculture industry. The milk used in Land O'Lakes products is thoroughly tested and meets the highest quality standards.
Be assured that your comments regarding this issue are important to us and that they will be forwarded to the appropriate personnel.
Please let us know if we can be of assistance in the future. If you need to respond to this email, please use the "Reply To" button at the top of this email.
Your opinions are very important to us. Please take a few minutes and click on the link below to tell us how we're doing.
http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/survey-intro.zgi?p=WEB228ZMB69MAZ
Sincerely,
Land O'Lakes Consumer Affairs
Case: 735328
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your comments:
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I am writing to strongly urge you to conduct a thorough review of your standards of care and humane treatment of animals and insist on frequent and unannouced inspection of all farms from which you contract for your dairy products. I saw the video and read the article about the horrific and unconscionable abuse of animals at a Pennsylvania dairy farm. I understand the owner and his son have been arrested and charged with animal cruelty. Hopefull, you have severed all ties with this farm.
I am vegan. I stopped eating meat and products made from animals about 10 years ago. However, I understand that people will continue to eat animals and animal products.
That being said, as a civilized society, we have the ethical and moral responsibility to treat these animals humanely and decently because they pay the ultimate price for our tastebuds--their lives.
To allow helpless creatures to suffer so reflects harshly on humanity. Though I don't partake of your products, I ask you to take the necessary steps to create stronger humane standards for your suppliers.
If you cannot do that, then you should certainly not be in business!
With outrage,
Susan Trout
~ a voice for the voiceless ~
Posted by: Susan t | November 5, 2009 06:24 PM
I became a veg. after reading ALL of the ABUSE taking place on animals...THEY are so basic, loving & gentle..WHY ARE PEOPLE SO CRUEL??? it's so sad.
Posted by: Danika Sands | November 11, 2009 03:55 PM