Farmer's Pride: Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2025 (USDA)

313.16(a)(3),313.16(b)(1)(iii),313.16(b)(1)(i),313.16(a)(1)

At approximately 7:45 a.m., while performing a humane handling task, I observed the following egregious noncompliance. A 1425 lb. cow entered the knock box for slaughter. An employee attempted to slaughter the cow using a rifle without a head restraint. The head restraint was broken. The first shot was fired with a .410 rifle, causing the cow to fall to the ground without vocalizing, although it was observed blinking its eyes. About 30 seconds later, a second shot was administered with the same .410 rifle. The cow remained silent, exhibiting heavy breathing and slow eye blinking. After approximately 45 seconds, the cow stood up in the knock box. Subsequently, about 30 seconds later, a third shot was fired with a 20-gauge rifle. The cow then fell to the floor of the knock box and was rendered unconscious/dead for further processing. I immediately applied the U.S Rejected tag NO. B-45 462501 to the knock box to prevent any additional animals from being slaughtered. The establishment owner (REDACTED) was notified of the non-compliance. The rifle utilized for the shots was loaded with slugs. This detail is important for understanding the type of ammunition used during the slaughtering process and the potential impact on the cow’s anatomy. The head of the cow was skinned to examine the placement of the shots. I CSI, REDACTED and District Veterinary Medical Officer, Dr REDACTED verified that 3 shots had been administered and properly positioned. This procedure was conducted to ensure accurate documentation and assessment of the slaughter process. This is a noncompliance of 9 CFR 313.16 (a)(1), 313.16 (a)(3), 313.16(b)(1)(iii), 313.16 (b)(1)(i).