Biotech firm target of USDA animal welfare probe

Associated Press

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (AP) — A Santa Cruz-based biotechnology company has been cited by federal regulators for a long list of violations related to the proper care of animals.

The United States Department of Agriculture on Monday announced that it had filed a complaint against Santa Cruz Biotechnology, Inc., a biochemical research company that makes animal health care products.

The complaint lists more than 20 animal welfare violations stemming back to 2007, alleging the company failed to properly house, feed, handle and provide veterinary care for animals.

A call to the company seeking comment was not immediately returned.

While the complaint does not list specifics about the animals at risk from the violations, the company's website said it makes products for horses, livestock and companion animals.