Over the last month or two, I have been blogging about livestock animal cruelty laws in New York. However, Connecticut has a similar statute that proscribes the neglect of livestock animals. Pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-247(a), livestock producers in Connecticut can be prosecuted for the failure to provide necessary food, water, shelter and veterinary care. Thus far, horse breeders are the most susceptible to prosecution under this statute but other types of livestock producers in Connecticut should ensure their livestock animals have ample food, water, shelter and veterinary care. There are additional standards placed on poultry breeders pursuant to section 53-249.
In a sense, I feel that I am beating a dead horse and shooting it in the head (pun intended). My mantra is the same for Connecticut livestock owners: it is paramount to have a good working relationship with the University of Connecticut Extension Specialists, nutritionists, veterinarian and other livestock experts. Conduct regular farm visits with these experts. Document any recommendations given to you, your feeding and management adjustments and noted improvements. Archive these records in a place that is safe from an Act of God. Start building your case today against potential criminal prosecution for livestock neglect.
I published an article on livestock animal cruelty law in Connecticut. It is also available on JD Supra here. As a reminder, my article on New York livestock animal cruelty law can also be found here.