Jennifer,

I read with interest your article in the March Ohio Farmer magazine. I commend you and the publication for bringing such actions by those involved in the livestock industry to light. Also, the new acceptable rules and regulations of plants like the one in Michigan (hog processing) send a clear message to producers and transporters that they will not tolerate animal welfare violations.

Years ago such information would have been taboo to be included in a farming publication. I am encouraged to see the changes that are happening in the treatment of livestock in all parts of the industry. We have been involved with livestock for 45 years with cattle, hogs, and poultry production. When we witnessed nonacceptable handling and treatment of animals years ago, we were expected to keep quiet for the “good of the industry.” Not so today.

I am proud to say I am a member of ASPCA. When someone asks me how can I support organizations that are opposed to livestock production I ask them, how can you be opposed to the concept of prevention of cruelty to animals? That is not an opposition to raising livestock; we should all promote that concept.

Good article, good actions by the Clemons plant.

The times, they are a-changin.’

Kathy Siegel,
Fort Loramie, Ohio