Protection for Veal Calves

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has tentatively approved rules to protect downed veal calves, those unable to stand, from slaughter abuse, in response to a petition filed by The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). The rules, if finalized, would close loopholes allowing the slaughter of young calves who are too sick or injured to walk. In 2009, HSUS conducted an undercover investigation of Bushway Packing, Inc. in Grand Isle, Ver., where infant calves were found subjected to repeated electric shocks, kicking, hoof cutting, and even partial decapitation. In response, federal officials shut down the slaughter plant, and the USDA is now granting HSUS its petition and will solicit comments before the new rules are implemented.