Contaminated feed from Livestock Nutrition Center has been linked to the recent deaths of dozens of horses at the Beutler and Son Rodeo Company in Elk City, Oklahoma. The feed manufacturer claimed responsibility for the deaths due to a failed cleanup procedure and a sensor malfunction that likely led to the contamination of monensin, an antibiotic toxic to horses. Ronnie Castlebury, president of the feed company, called it an isolated incident and stated that no other feed had been impacted. Monensin is commonly used as a feed ingredient for livestock like cattle, sheep, goats, and chickens, but is toxic to horses and domestic animals.
The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is currently investigating the matter in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The investigation is ongoing, and the ODAFF is awaiting the results of tests conducted on feed samples taken from the ranch. So far, there have been no additional complaints or messages related to the contaminated feed from other customers since the investigation began. The ODAFF was alerted to the issue by a veterinarian on Aug. 23 and has been analyzing feed samples with two state-certified laboratories to determine the extent of the contamination.
Initial reports indicated that monensin, also known by the brand name Rumensin, could be the cause of the horses’ deaths. The drug is commonly used as a feed ingredient for various livestock but is lethal to horses and other domestic animals. The Kansas Department of Agriculture is also reviewing Livestock Nutrition Center’s records, labeling procedures, and operating procedures to ensure that appropriate protocols for feed safety are being followed. Livestock Nutrition Center has expressed dedication to assisting and supporting the Beutler family to make things right for their customers and employees who deserve better in this situation.
Livestock Nutrition Center has stated that it is committed to rectifying the situation and ensuring the safety of its feed products. The feed company is working closely with investigators to determine the root cause of the contamination and prevent similar incidents in the future. The Beutler and Son Rodeo Company, a renowned breeder of award-winning rodeo livestock, has suffered significant losses due to the deaths of numerous horses from the contaminated feed. As investigations continue, both the feed company and regulatory agencies are focused on identifying the source of the contamination and implementing corrective measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
The deaths of the horses at the Beutler and Son Rodeo Company have raised concerns about the safety and quality of livestock feed products. Livestock Nutrition Center’s acknowledgment of the contamination and its pledge to assist the affected family demonstrate a commitment to accountability and transparency. The collaborative efforts between regulatory agencies, including the ODAFF, KDA, and the FDA, highlight the importance of thorough investigations and oversight to ensure the integrity of the feed supply chain. As the investigation progresses, it is crucial for all parties involved to remain vigilant in addressing the issue and implementing safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future. By working together, stakeholders can work towards ensuring the safety and well-being of livestock and preventing further harm from contaminated feed products.
