Agricultural officials in Oklahoma are investigating the deaths of as many as 40 to 70 horses at the Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. farm near Elk City. The horses fell ill and died after consuming bulk feed suspected to be contaminated. Co-owner Bennie Beutler noted that the horses started dying shortly after they ate the feed, leading him to believe that it was the cause of their illness. Some of the affected horses were young and now need to be bottle-fed after losing their mothers. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the feed being supplied to livestock in the area.
Reports suggest that Beutler had recently acquired feed from a new supplier, which may have led to the contamination issue. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is currently investigating the situation after a veterinarian raised concerns. The feed is being analyzed in state-certified laboratories, and samples have been sent to Kansas, as the feed originated from there. Speculation points towards a drug called monensin sodium as a potential cause of contamination. Monensin, often used to improve the health of cattle and sheep, is toxic to horses and other domestic animals.
Dr. Gregg VeneKlasen, a veterinarian who cares for the Beutler horses, stated that the feed was mixed with a large amount of monensin. This drug is typically safe for livestock like cows and sheep but can be lethal to horses. It is essential for livestock and pet owners to review animal food labels carefully before distribution. Dr. Rod Hall, Ohio’s state veterinarian, emphasized the importance of contacting a veterinarian with any concerns or questions about animal feed. The incident underscores the significance of ensuring feed safety and careful monitoring of livestock health.
Local reports indicate that Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. has been breeding rodeo livestock since 1929 and still has 140 horses remaining at the ranch. The loss of numerous horses has had a significant impact on the operation, particularly with some of the animals being very young and requiring special care. The situation highlights the vulnerability of livestock to contamination in feed supplies and the importance of swift action in investigating such incidents. Hopefully, the ongoing investigation will shed light on the exact cause of the contamination and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The tragic incident at the Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. farm has raised concerns among agricultural officials and animal welfare advocates regarding the safety of livestock feed. The potential contamination with monensin sodium, a drug toxic to horses, has highlighted the need for stringent quality control measures in the production and distribution of animal feed. While the investigation is ongoing, it is essential for livestock owners to be vigilant in monitoring their animals’ health and ensuring the safety of their feed supply. The loss of dozens of horses serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in livestock management and the importance of preventive measures to safeguard animal welfare.
The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry continues to investigate the situation at the Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. farm, collaborating with state authorities in Kansas to analyze the feed samples. The incident has drawn attention to the potential dangers of feed contamination with harmful substances like monensin sodium and the need for strict regulatory oversight in the livestock industry. As the investigation progresses, it is crucial to identify the root cause of the contamination and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The tragic loss of horses at the ranch has sparked a broader dialogue on animal feed safety and the responsibility of all stakeholders in ensuring the well-being of livestock.
