Report: OSU slapped with federal fine after 15 animals die of thirst
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Report: OSU slapped with federal fine after 15 animals die of thirst
By Dallas Franklin, KFOR.com, July 27, 2016

A report from a national research watchdog group says Oklahoma State University was slapped with a heavy fine by federal regulators following the negligent deaths of 15 animals, and other veterinary care lapses.

The U.S. Dept of Agriculture document obtained today by the watchdog group, SAEN (Stop Animal Exploitation NOW), recounts the 15 vole deaths, failure to provide veterinary care to a sick rabbit, and other acts in violation of federal laws and guidelines.

SAEN had filed a federal complaint against the Oklahoma State University for multiple violations of the Animal Welfare Act, and urged the USDA levy a fine.

According to SAEN, USDA documents disclose that even though 15 voles died or were euthanized due to dehydration, a total of 34 voles had been deprived of water.

Other violations disclosed include a fawn who had significant hair loss, a rabbit who was denied veterinary care, and use of expired veterinary materials.

“Negligence at the Oklahoma State University caused 15 animals to die of thirst, and denied veterinary care to a rabbit and a fawn,” said Michael A. Budkie, A.H.T., Executive Director, SAEN. “Fatal animal abuse like this deserved a much more serious penalty.”

The USDA fined OSU $12,850 for violating the Animal Welfare Act.

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