Shining a Light on Hidden Cruelty
SEED went undercover into seventeen livestock auctions across ten states, from 2022 to 2024. Here’s what we found.
Our investigation revealed distressing, consistent, and often illegal cruelty towards animals in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, New Mexico, Louisiana, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, and California. This cruelty was evident regardless of species or type of farm the animals originated from—be it neglectful factory farms or small, independent family farms where animals were hand-raised and named.
In addition, it found conditions ripe for spreading disease. At poultry auctions, animals of numerous species were packed together in cages, their feces mixing together as workers and members of the public walked through the excrement and handled the animals. Such an environment is exactly what leads to zoonotic disease outbreaks.
The Backbone of Animal Exploitation
Livestock auctions are the linchpin of the livestock industry. They serve as the primary means by which cattle, sheep, and goat producers transfer animals for slaughter. Despite their origins, all animals face abuse once they enter these auctions. Our extensive documentation shows a pervasive pattern of mistreatment and neglect at these auctions.
Consistent Cruelty Across the Industry
From the smallest family farms to the largest factory farms, the journey through livestock auctions is marked by suffering. SEED's undercover footage and reports from seventeen different auctions provide undeniable evidence that animal cruelty is not just an occasional lapse but a systemic issue ingrained in the auction process.
Join the Fight Against Animal Cruelty
Our investigation lays bare the harsh realities faced by animals at livestock auctions. Now, we need your help to spread awareness and push for change. Explore our detailed evidence, understand the reasons behind this abuse, and learn more about the function of livestock auctions.
Dive Deeper into the Evidence
Visit our Evidence Breakdown page to see the detailed documentation of the abuse and neglect uncovered during our investigation.
Understand the Roots of Cruelty
Why does this abuse happen? Explore the Reasons for Abuse page to delve into the factors driving cruel treatment of farmed animals.
What is a Livestock Auction?
Get informed about the process and significance of livestock auctions on our What are livestock auctions? page.