March 12, 2007

Washington investigates cattle deaths 
 

Washington state animal health officials are investigating reports of dead cattle at a dairy operation in Stevens County, a spokesman for the state's Agriculture Department, told reporters Thursday (March 8).

The investigation, prompted by reported sightings of dead animals at the facility, is in its initial stages, and is being undertaken by state Veterinarian Dr Leonard Eldridge. Thus far, spokesman Jason Kelly said they yet to determine the cause of death.

Kelly didn't indicate whether the investigation involves bovine spongiform encephalopathy, though he said state investigators previously had visited the dairy, located north of Spokane.