PETA urges an investigation into a pig farm after a USDA report highlights animal neglect issues
The USDA report pointed out issues at Manthei Hog Farm, where a vet found pigs in distress. One pig had a rectal prolapse and was kept with others that couldn’t walk properly. There was blood on the floor and on some of the pigs, which is pretty alarming.
According to the USDA, the farm didn’t provide proper housing for the animals, leading to injuries. They did fix the violation during the inspection, but it raises a lot of questions. PETA’s legal guy, Daniel Paden, thinks this situation falls under Minnesota’s animal neglect laws.
Paden mentioned that they want local law enforcement to be aware of what’s happening. Just because the USDA oversees the farm doesn’t mean state laws don’t apply. He’s hoping for some justice for the animals involved.
This isn’t the first time Manthei Hog Farm has faced scrutiny. Back in 2015, they were cited for shooting pigs, which the USDA said was not an acceptable way to euthanize them. They also fed pigs off a concrete floor that had parasites and feces, which is just gross.
Paden emphasized that pigs are smart creatures that feel pain just like pets do. He believes it’s important to investigate this further. The Sherburne County Attorney’s Office hasn’t commented on the situation yet.
Corey Schmidt covers politics and courts for the St. Cloud Times. You can reach him at cschmidt@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: PETA asks Sherburne County attorney to file charges against pig farm.
