The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Care program plays a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of various animals across the nation. Enforcing the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA), this program sets and upholds standards for the humane care and treatment of animals in specific settings. These settings include animals exhibited to the public, those bred for commercial sale, animals used in biomedical research, and those transported commercially. Facilities operating in these sectors are mandated to provide animals under their care with essential provisions such as proper veterinary attention, suitable housing, and appropriate nutrition, all under the watchful eye of the USDA’s dedicated Animal Care program.
Alt text: Animal Care Inspector Bob Markmann meticulously examines a commercial dog breeding facility, ensuring compliance with USDA standards for animal welfare.
The life of an Animal Care inspector is certainly unique. Bob Markmann, an experienced inspector, humorously recounts some of the less glamorous aspects of the job: “Our job can be smelly at times. I’ve been urinated on by a tiger while inspecting a circus. I’ve been sneezed on by an elephant. I’ve had a chimpanzee throw feces at me. And too often, I come home smelling like guinea pigs and dogs. But the worst was when I came home smelling like a prehensile-tailed porcupine. That smell takes the cake. I have not found a good way to describe it.” Despite these occupational hazards, the inspectors’ commitment to animal welfare remains unwavering, viewing these minor discomforts as a small price to pay for the significant positive impact they have on countless animal lives each year.
The backbone of the USDA Animal Care program consists of veterinary medical officers and animal care inspectors who are assigned to specific geographic regions throughout the country. These dedicated professionals are tasked with inspecting animals and facilities that are licensed and registered with the USDA under both the Animal Welfare Act and the Horse Protection Act. Their daily routines involve extensive travel as they move from one facility to another, carrying out a diverse range of duties aimed at upholding animal welfare standards. These duties include:
- Observing animals: Closely monitoring animals for any indicators of illness, abuse, mistreatment, or inadequate care.
- Facility assessments: Evaluating animal enclosures to confirm they are species-appropriate and designed to prevent harm.
- Horse show inspections: Inspecting horses at various events like horse shows, auctions, and sales to ensure their well-being.
- Complaint response: Investigating complaints lodged against USDA-licensed facilities to address potential welfare violations.
- Unlicensed operator identification: Interviewing individuals suspected of operating without the necessary licenses to determine if they fall under licensing requirements.
- Education and guidance: Educating licensees and applicants on best practices for humane care, handling, and transportation of animals, ensuring a proactive approach to animal welfare.
This varied job description is a key factor that attracts individuals to become APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) inspectors. Coupled with an intrinsic passion for animal welfare, the dynamic nature of the role and the opportunity to make a tangible difference motivates these professionals in their daily work. When asked about their career motivations, several inspectors shared their personal perspectives.
Alt text: Veterinary Medical Officer Gloria McFadden conducts a thorough inspection of a research facility, part of the USDA Animal Care program’s oversight of animal treatment in research.
Veterinary medical officer Elizabeth Pannill from Texas, with 22 years of service, stated, “I became an inspector to make a difference for animals. Over my 22 years with Animal Care, I have found that, although we can’t help them all, we do make a big difference in the lives of the ones we can help.” Her sentiment reflects the direct impact inspectors have on improving animal lives through the USDA Animal Care program.
Lisa MacElderry, a veterinary medical officer in South Carolina with 19 years of experience, highlighted the progress within the program: “Previously, I had worked four years in private practice and four years for the Food Safety Inspection Service in a chicken plant in North Carolina. I applied for a position with Animal Care in South Carolina and was hired 19 years ago. We have made a lot of really good changes over the decades, especially in our training and our consistency. In the beginning, I had a licensee who was literally starving his cougars before my eyes, but all I could do was cite him. Today, we would have those cougars confiscated and taken to a better place.” This evolution demonstrates the strengthening of enforcement capabilities within the USDA Animal Care program, leading to more effective interventions for animal welfare.
Bob Markmann, the animal care inspector from Pennsylvania, with over 25 years at APHIS, simply stated, “I’ve always been interested in animal welfare, and joined the agency hoping to make a difference.” His long-term commitment underscores the personal dedication that drives many within the program.
Nancy Ellifrit, a veterinary medical officer in Oklahoma, who joined Animal Care on December 30, 1990, expressed a forward-looking vision: “My purpose then is the same as it is today: to provide better environments for animals by helping their owners understand the importance of proper care. I wanted to be a part of an organization that would be searching for and utilizing new scientific approaches to improve the environment and care of the animals that are listed under the Animal Welfare Act.” Her perspective highlights the program’s commitment to continuous improvement and incorporating scientific advancements to enhance animal care standards.
In conclusion, the USDA Animal Care program is vital for upholding animal welfare standards across the United States. Through diligent inspections, dedicated professionals, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the program significantly impacts the lives of countless animals, ensuring they receive humane care and treatment as mandated by the Animal Welfare Act. The passion and experience of the inspectors are the driving force behind the program’s effectiveness, making it a cornerstone of animal protection in the nation.
