CORAPEAKE, N.C., Oct. 8 /PRNewswire/ — Contrary to a
report in today’s Virginian-Pilot, a comprehensive
inspection by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) of NC-based
Professional Laboratory and Research Services (PLRS) has found no
evidence of animal neglect or abuse. The USDA finding follows
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ (PETA) September
release of a contrived video that inaccurately depicts the
conditions at PLRS, in a malicious attempt to force the small
business to close its doors.
Two USDA veterinarians visited PLRS on September 13 and 14, 2010
and conducted a thorough medical review of every animal at the
facility. Their inspection revealed no evidence of abuse or
neglect. In addition, USDA performed a routine inspection of
the facility on July 7, 2010 – during the time PETA’s
operative was working there – and found no evidence that
would corroborate the group’s baseless claims.
“PLRS was the target of a premeditated smear campaign by PETA, a
group that opposes all forms of biomedical research,” stated
veterinary parasitologist and PLRS Vice President Dr. Larry
Cruthers, Ph.D. “PETA’s contrived video was engineered to
mislead the public about PLRS and the company’s strong commitment
to animal welfare and regulatory compliance. The USDA’s
inspection report shows there is no proof to PETA’s unfounded
accusations.”
In the company’s 24-year history, it has never been the subject
of an enforcement action by USDA. The USDA has rigorously
inspected the PLRS facility on an annual basis, using trained,
experienced USDA veterinarians. Since the company’s founding,
multiple veterinarians have been called upon to inspect and treat
PLRS’ animals. Sponsors who funded the tests also made
regular visits, including veterinarians employed by these same
sponsors, without any complaints of animal neglect such as those
alleged by PETA.
‘/>”/>
