Investigators arrived at the auction at 2:00pm. Again, the pens contained no water or food for any of the animals. It was raining and the roof of the old auction barn was leaking through several holes, making the pens very muddy and slippery. There were approx. 35 cows, 1 bull, 15 calves, 12 sheep, 27 goats 12 horses, 1 mule and 5 mini's. Investigators noticed one steer that appeared to have a respiratory problem. His breathing was very rapid, he kept his head low to the ground and discharge was dripping from his mouth and nostrils. When the investigators inquired about his condition, the handler stated that he was “just scared” and then started to move him to the sale ring with an electric prod. The horses present at the sale appeared stressed and in need of some water. One mare with a freshly shaved bridle path, that was kept in a separate pen showed signs of dehydration.
No large commercial trucks were noted in the parking lot, only pick-ups with stock trailers. The handling of the calves by the barn employees and the buyers was unnecessarily rough, they were moved with no patience by pushing them to the ground & boot kicking. On several occasions gates were being shut on their little bodies. The local kill buyer was observed buying 5 horses. Animals’ Angels will send a complaint to auction management regarding the handling observed and continue to monitor this auction.