citation_inspection

In the warm room building, members of the public were observed touching rabbits who were in cages stacked on wagons. Additionally, during the auction, in the staging areas near the sale ring, members of the public were observed touching several animals including a capuchin monkey, a kinkajou, a fox, and skunks. In these areas, although the facility sporadically had readily identifiable employees on hand, the employees did not serve as effective barriers to stop members of the public from touching the animals. Effective distance and/or barriers are important for ensuring that members of the public do not cause harm to the animals or become injured themselves. Correct by ensuring that animals are exhibited so there is minimal risk of harm to the animal and public and the facility must ensure that there are barriers with sufficient distance to assure the safety of both.

On the morning of September 15, 2023 at approximately 9:00 AM Eastern Time, UDSA personnel inspected rabbits which were located in the “warm room” building; most or all of these rabbits had been present overnight. Some of the rabbits had no drinking water. When water was provided some rabbits drank ravenously for a prolonged time. A black male Flemish giant rabbit (tag #6659) drank for over 4 minutes, requiring the water cup to be refilled. A grey and black female rabbit (tag #4058) drank for over 2.5 minutes when water was provided (this animal had small babies in the enclosure with her). A female white lionhead rabbit (tag #4059) drank for more than 40 seconds when water was provided (this animal also had small babies in the enclosure with her). The facility representative was informed and the remaining rabbits who didn’t have water were promptly provided with water. One female white rabbit and 7 kits (tag #4102) was extremely restless and hungry. The rabbits were trying to reach a half-eaten carrot that was beside their cage. When USDA personnel placed the carrot into the cage, the rabbits ravenously ate it, pushing each other out of the way. The kits continued to lick the bars of the cage where the carrot had been. Facility staff were informed and the rabbit was provided with food. The morning of 9/16/23 some cages of rabbits had empty or no water bowls. USDA personnel requested that water be provided to the cages, and when it was provided the rabbits showed signs of extreme thirst: A brown lop eared rabbit (tag 5626) drank water for 4 minutes, a grey rabbit (tag 4454) drank for 2 minutes, a brown Flemish giant rabbit (tag 7725) drank for over 2.5 minutes, and 5 young rabbits in one cage (tag 7716) drank for 5 minutes (pushing each other out of the way to get to the water bowl). Food and water are important for animal health and wellbeing. Animals that do not have adequate food and water may suffer from thirst, hunger, dehydration, low blood sugar, or death. Lactating female animals require more water in order to produce milk for their offspring. Correct by 9/17/23 by ensuring that rabbits in transport for more than 6 hours have adequate quantity and quality of food and drinking water.

Many animal transport enclosures did not have projecting rims, adequate ventilation, or handles. For example, two chinchillas (tag 4545 and 4544) were in wood and wire enclosures that lacked handles and projecting rims. Three foxes (tag 7702, 7701, 7700) did not have adequate space to turn around and make normal postural adjustments. A fox (tag 7871) was contained in a wire crate that did not have handles or protruding rims. A juvenile opossum (tag 7870) was contained in a crate that only had ventilation openings on the top. Numerous hedgehogs were contained in wood and wire transport enclosures that did not have protruding rims or handles. A lack of appropriate openings, adequate space and ventilation, projecting rims, and handholds on primary transport enclosures can make it difficult to remove the animal in the case of an emergency, allow for inadequate ventilation particularly when the cages are stacked when placed on the cart to move between the auction floor and holding area, and can cause unintentional contact between the handler and the animal during transport. Correct by ensuring that all primary transport enclosures for subpart F animals contain openings that are always easily accessible for emergency removal of live animals, contain projecting rims or other devices on the exterior walls to prevent obstruction of the ventilation, provide the animals with adequate space and ventilation openings on the sides of the enclosures, and provide adequate handholds for lifting animals without tilting or risk of contact with the animal.

The birds are not listed on the written program of veterinary care (PVC) for this facility. The facility contacted a veterinarian who agreed to be their attending veterinarian, but they have not yet visited the facility or developed a written PVC. Failure to include birds on the written PVC can result in a lack of veterinary guidance on the care of animals, adequate treatment, and consultation with the attending veterinarian when there are animal health and well-being problems. Licensee must contact the attending veterinarian and update the written program of veterinary care to include birds.

The black water tub in the enclosure housing 4 hens contained dirt, debris, and algae adhering to the sides and bottom of the container. The inspector asked the avian caretaker to drain the tub and provide water in another container. Failure to provide fresh, potable water, and keep receptacles clean can result in illness and death. Potable water must be provided in sufficient quantity to all birds housed at the facility. Water receptacles must be kept clean and sanitized in accordance with section 3.158, as often as necessary to prevent contamination. Licensee must provide potable water to all birds, keep water receptacles clean and sanitary to protect the health of the birds.

Two turkeys and 6 chickens had significant feather loss. Feather loss can be caused by many factors as previously described under the veterinary care section 2.40(b)(2). There are no records of observations for any of these birds, treatment records, or record of any bird deaths. Birds are not currently on the written program of veterinary care and there was no documentation birds with feather loss were being treated. The bird caretaker stated that the feather loss was due to the normal breeding season (May through August). Caretaker also stated that he was not currently saving the fertilized eggs. He attempted to protect hens with feather loss with saddle covers, but majority of the covers came off. Several chicken enclosures had more than one rooster and the turkey enclosure had two toms. Birds may not be housed with other animals, including their own species, unless they are compatible, do not prevent access to food, water, or shelter areas, and are not hazardous to the health and well-being of each other. Licensee must ensure that birds are compatible and are separated when there are injuries, illness, health concerns, overly aggressive birds, or overbreeding. A new attending veterinarian has been consulted about the feather loss, but she had not visited the facility yet to do an evaluation. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the facility representative. Additional Inspectors: CHRISTINA RADZAI, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n

Although the facility does provide appropriate enrichment within the enclosures that address the requirements of this plan, the facility did not have a documented environmental enhancement plan to promote psychological well-being of their avian species as required. The plan is necessary to ensure the psychological health and well-being of the birds. A lack of environmental enrichment can negatively impact birds health and welfare. The facility must develop, document and follow a species appropriate plan for environment enhancement adequate to promote the psychological well-being of birds. The plan must be approved by the attending veterinarian, and at a minimum must address social grouping, environmental enrichment, special considerations, restraint, and exemptions to the plan. Correct by 9/28/23 This inspection and exit interview were conducted with a facility representative. n

The written program of veterinary care does not address the veterinary care for the 2 macaws and 2 emus at this facility . They need to be added to the program of veterinary care to ensure that adequate veterinary care is provided. CORRECT BY : 10/15/2023

Transport enclosures housing a total of 6 Red Fox and 2 Domestic Ferret did not contain projecting rims. A lack of projecting rims on primary transport enclosures can allow for inadequate ventilation in the event that enclosures shift during transport. Correct by 30-September-2023 by ensuring that all primary transport enclosures for subpart F animals must contain projecting rims or other devices on the exterior walls to prevent obstruction of the ventilation.

Most of the raptors at the facility were in their indoor enclosures which do not provide enough space for adequate freedom of movement. The birds while housed indoors are housed in stainless steel enclosures that do not allow them to fully extend their wings or make normal postural and social adjustments such as change perches and footing. These birds spend up to 12 hours in these enclosures when not outside in the mews. The facility states that they cannot maintain the birds overnight in their large outdoor mews due to potential safety concerns. These birds must be housed in primary enclosures that allow the birds to make normal postural and social adjustments with space for adequate freedom of movement. In addition, the attending veterinarian must consult with the facility to ensure the space in all enclosures is adequate. This needs to be addressed for the overall health of the birds. Correct by: Oct 1, 2023 This inspection and exit interview were conducted with a facility representative. Additional Inspector; Dr Jason Sifarovski, Veterinary Medical Officer n

A responsible adult was not available to accompany APHIS Officials during the inspection process at 4:45 PM on 9/14/23. The inspector arrived at 4:45 PM on 9/14/23 to conduct an inspection. The inspector learned that the Licensee was out of town and not available. An AWA compliance inspection could not be conducted because there was no other facility representative available to accompany the inspector. Unannounced inspections are used to evaluate compliance with the AWA Regulations and Standards. End Section

Several enclosures used to transport animals did not have projecting rims and/or hand holds. Transport enclosures housing a total of 7 Sugar Gliders, 8 Hedgehogs, and 16 Degus did not contain projecting rims or adequate handholds. Two transport enclosures housing 2 Armadillos did not have projecting rims. A lack of projecting rims on primary transport enclosures can allow for inadequate ventilation particularly when the cages are stacked when placed on the cart to move between the auction floor and holding area, and lack of handholds can cause unintentional contact between the handler and the animal during transport. Correct by 9/30/2023 by ensuring that all primary transport enclosures for subpart F animals must contain projecting rims or other devices on the exterior walls to prevent obstruction of the ventilation and provide adequate handholds for lifting animals without tilting or risk of contact with the animal.

Several enclosures used to transport birds did not have projecting rims. Several Transport enclosures housing a total of 51 Quail did not contain projecting rims. A lack of projecting rims on primary transport enclosures can allow for inadequate ventilation particularly when the cages are stacked when placed on the cart to move between the auction floor and holding area. Correct by 9/30/2023 by ensuring that all primary transport enclosures contain projecting rims or other devices on the exterior walls to prevent obstruction of the ventilation. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the Licensee. This inspection was conducted in Mount Hope, Ohio. Additional Inspectors: Charles Palmer, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Mark Sanderbeck, ANIMAL CARE INSPECTOR DIANA CARE, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Lauren Murphy, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n

The 4 transport enclosures used for 3 squirrel monkeys and 1 common marmoset were not labelled with “live animal” or “wild animal” signage and did not have directional arrows or markings indicating the correct upright position of the enclosure. A lack of clear markings can inhibit correct handling and cage orientation by first responders in the event of an emergency. Correct for all future transports by ensuring that the top and on one or more sides of transport enclosures are marked with the words “Wild Animals” or “Live Animals” in letters at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) high, with arrows or other markings to indicate the correct upright position of the primary enclosure. Correct by 30-September-2023.

Animals including an African crested porcupine, 2 sugar gliders, and 1 coati were transported in enclosures that lacked “live animal” or “wild animal” signage and did not have directional arrows or markings indicating the correct upright position of the enclosure. A lack of clear markings can inhibit correct handling and cage orientation by first responders in the event of an emergency. Correct for all future transports by ensuring that the top and on one or more sides of transport enclosures are marked with the words “Wild Animals” or “Live Animals” in letters at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) high, with arrows or other markings to indicate the correct upright position of the primary enclosure. Correct by 30-September-2023.

Ribs and hips were visible on 7 of 17 weanling piglets in a single pen with one feeding unit of less than 4 ft in length, suggestive of malnutrition and an inadequate access to enough feed. A pen containing 3 large breeding sows was not large enough for all animals to lie down fully at the same time without the animals overlapping bodies, a normal postural adjustment. Lack of adequate space and overcrowding can lead to malnutrition, stress, and adversely affects welfare. The facility must ensure that the animals have adequate space. Correct by 15 September 2023.

The licensee did not provide the inspectors with a copy of the program of veterinary care (PVC). Failure to provide a PVC does not allow USDA inspectors to verify the adequacy of the care being provided to the animals or confirm the facility has an attending veterinarian to provide guidance on appropriate veterinary care for all aspects of animal health and well- being. Each exhibitor shall employ an attending veterinarian under formal arrangements. In the case of a part-time attending veterinarian or consultant arrangements, the formal arrangements shall include a written program of veterinary care and regularly scheduled visits to the premises of the dealer or exhibitor. To be corrected by September 22, 2023

There was one adult female Bernese Mountain dog, one adult female cockapoo, one adult female goldendoodle, and fourteen puppies that did not have identification. All dogs, including puppies, must have distinctive identification so that animals can be identified in the case of an animal disease outbreak, and to identify specific animals that may require routine or veterinary care. Class “C” exhibitors shall identify all dogs under his control or on his premises, whether held, purchased, or otherwise acquired. All dogs and puppies held at the facility must have a distinctive identification. To be corrected by September 22, 2023

-While on the wagon ride used for the public to feed the animals in the drive-thru portion of the facility a zebra was seen kicking a duck with its back leg causing the duck to roll on its back and was unable to right itself. After the zebra kicked the single duck, an eland was startled at the wagon and ran away stepping on numerous other ducks. -According to the facility, one round bale of hay is fed nightly. The animals receive their daily grain allotment throughout the day from wagon ride participants. The wagon the inspectors were on the first wagon ride of the day. There was no evidence of a round hay bale in the enclosure. The animals gathering around the wagon were very aggressive to get at the grain being fed. Animals with horns and antlers were observed pushing other animals away. The llamas, alpacas, and sheep would not approach the wagon. The licensee stated that this was normal for the first wagon ride of the day. Inappropriate feeding and handling of animals can lead to compatibility issues causing unnecessary animal injury or distress. Handling of all animals shall be done as expeditiously and carefully as possible in a manner that does not cause trauma, overheating, excessive cooling, behavioral stress, physical harm, or unnecessary discomfort. Animals must be fed in a manner that does not cause trauma, behavioral stress, physical harm, or unnecessary discomfort. To be corrected from this day forward, September 19, 2023

During the inspection, a contingency plan was not made available to inspectors for review. An inadequate contingency plan could affect animal health and well-being. All exhibitors must develop, document, and follow an appropriate plan to provide for the humane handling, treatment, transportation, housing, and care of their animals in the event of an emergency or disaster. To be corrected from this day forward, September 19, 2023

- There were dig barriers in the exercise yard for the dogs. There were numerous areas of this dig barrier fence that had been dug up and were sticking up above the ground. - The shade shelter in the exercise yard had two, two by four boards with sharp points. These points were the tips of screws sticking downward at the point where the animals access the shelter. - The dividers for the outside pens were composed of aluminum rods. The gaps between the rods were approximately 3-4 inches. To prevent small dogs and puppies from squeezing between the rods, the licensee lined the rods with a one-inch by one-inch welded wire fence. This additional fencing was rusted. Primary enclosures must be constructed and maintained so that they protect the animals from injury. Surfaces in contact with dogs must be able to be readily sanitize or removed or replaced when worn or soiled to reduce odor, pests, and the possibility of disease transmission. Primary enclosures must be constructed and maintained in good repair and without rust. To be corrected by September 22, 2023

-The only shelter for a singly housed dwarf rabbit was the top of a plastic transport enclosure with ventilation holes. - The shelter in the primary enclosure for three rabbits was in disrepair. There was a large hole measuring approximately six inches by eight inches in the front left corner of the roof. The ventilation holes in the top of the transport enclosure can allow rain and wind into the shelter for the dwarf rabbit. The hole in the roof would allow rain, snow and wind in the shelter. These shelters are not adequate to protect the rabbits from the elements and remain dry. Rabbits kept outdoors shall be provided with access to shelter. To be corrected by September 22, 2023

- The shelters used for the three ring-tailed lemurs was a plastic dog feeder with no bedding and no windbreak. - The shelter used for the spider monkey was a plastic barrel with no bedding and no windbreak. - The shelter for the macaque was a plastic barrel with no bedding and no windbreak. Low temperatures listed for the city of the facility were recorded as 47 degrees F for Tuesday, and 44 degrees F for Wednesday night. Plastic shelters have no insulative value to protect from the cold. Outdoor housing facilities for nonhuman primates must provide adequate shelter from the elements at all times. It must provide protection from the sun, rain, snow, wind, and cold, and from any weather conditions that may occur. Appropriate shelter must be provided to all nonhuman primates for the comfort of the primates. The shelter must safely provide heat to the nonhuman primates to prevent the ambient temperature from falling below 45 °F to protect the nonhuman primates from discomfort from the cold. All nonhuman primates housed outside must be provided sufficient shelter for the elements and safely provide heat if temperatures fall below 45 degrees F. To be corrected by October 1, 2023

There was no written and documented program for the environmental enrichment of the nonhuman primates held at the facility. The lack of an enrichment program for the nonhuman primates can lead to boredom, stress, behavioral issues and self- injurious behaviors. Exhibitors must develop, document, and follow an appropriate plan for environment enhancement adequate to promote the psychological well-being of nonhuman primates. The plan must be in accordance with the currently accepted professional standards as cited in appropriate professional journals or reference guides, and as directed by the attending veterinarian. This plan must be made available to APHIS upon request. To be corrected by October 1, 2023

-The shelters in the primary enclosures for the three ring-tailed lemurs, the one spider monkey and the one macaque have not been cleaned or removed since the animals were put in their enclosures this spring. There is debris in the plastic dog feeder used as a shelter for the ring-tailed lemurs. The plastic barrel used for the spider monkey was rusted and dirty and when asked when the last time the spider monkey shelter was cleaned the licensee stated that he couldn’t remember the last time someone crawled up there to clean it. The plastic barrel for the macaque was covered in a layer of dirt and grime. -There were bird nests in various areas of the primary enclosures for the three ring-tailed lemurs, the spider monkey and the macaque. There were large accumulations of bird feces on the majority of the perches. Cleaning of primary enclosures and shelters is necessary to prevent odors, pest infestation and reduce the risk of disease transmission. Avian pests and feces can contain disease hazards that can affect the health of the nonhuman primates. Primary enclosures and shelters must be cleaned. A method to eliminate birds from nesting inside the primary enclosures for the nonhuman primates must be established and maintained. To be corrected by October 1, 2023

-There was no shelter from inclement weather provided for the animals in the drive-thru primary enclosures. There was limited shade provided by the line of trees outside of the fence. These animals include the three eland, three water buffalo, one wildebeest, five nilgai, five zebra, three camels, three llamas, two pigs, seventeen fallow deer, eight alpaca, five elk, approximately thirty cows, and three yak. -The shelter provided for the skunk was an open-ended plastic tube. -The primary enclosure housing the seven pigmy goats did not have a shelter. -There was no shelter in the primary enclosure of the marbled fox. The licensee stated that he had taken the shelter out because it was falling apart and thought that building a new one would be a good winter project. -There was only one calf hut shelter in the primary enclosure for the ten sheep and one Scottish highland calf. Not all animals were able to fit in the shelter at the same time. -The shelter in the primary enclosure of the red kangaroo did not provide shelter from the elements. There were vertical gaps of approximately one inch between all of the pieces of wood on the three sides of the shelter. - The shelter in the primary enclosure for the three dairy goats was too small to contain all three animals at the same time. -The shelter in the primary enclosure of the two cows and two donkeys was not large enough to contain all the animals at the same time. Providing shelter and shelter large enough to protect all animals simultaneously from the elements is important to prevent discomfort of the animals. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause animals discomfort and can cause them to overheat. All animals must be provided with shelter and shade appropriate for the local climatic conditions. To be corrected by November 1, 2023

- There was a cow tethered in a stall in the barn of the walk-thu petting area. This stall was approximately four feet in width. The cow was able to stand up and lay down but was not able to turn around, walk, or make normal postural adjustment. A lack of freedom of movement may cause animals physical and/or behavioral distress. The cow must be provided with adequate freedom of movement. To be corrected by September 20, 2023

-Five water containers, used for two raccoons and seven fox, had a layer of green organic material in the plastic bottle type waterers. -The striped skunk exhibit had a water bowl with a layer of green organic material. -The only water source in the wallaby enclosure, housing two wallabies, was a running water feature with fish and green organic film. Lack of potable water can lead to disease and illness or may cause the animals to stop drinking water leading to dehydration. All animals must have access to clean, potable water and receptacles shall be kept clean and sanitary. To be corrected by September 20, 2023

- The primary enclosure that contained the ostrich, rhea, and emu had an area of fencing with protruding sharp points approximately three foot in vertical length. -The metal roof of the primary enclosure of the Amazonian parrot had pulled away from the primary enclosure in the back left. This left a gap large enough for a wild bird to enter and nest. -The outdoor shelters for the scarlet macaw, the blue and gold macaw and the umbrella cockatoo had been chewed on by the birds leaving large missing sections. There were three screws were that only partly screwed into an area of the blue and gold macaw leaving shelter with over an inch of exposed screw. These shelters did not provide shelter from inclement weather or shade from the sun, and exposed screws could lead to injury of the birds. Primary enclosures must be maintained in good repair and sufficient to provide shelter from inclement weather and to provide shade. To be corrected by October 1, 2023

-The water container in the walk-in aviary had a layer of green organic material in the plastic bottle type waterer. -The only water source of water in the primary enclosures of two African crowned crane, two ducks, and three chickens was a water feature with fish in it and had a green organic film. -The only water available to the ducks and geese in the large drive thru pasture was a pond with a surface covered in duckweed. Lack of potable water can lead to disease and illness or may cause the animals to stop drinking water leading to dehydration. All birds must have access to clean, potable water and receptacles shall be kept clean and sanitary. To be corrected by September 20, 2023

All of the birds in the drive through area of the zoo were housed with mammals of various size. These animals include eland, nilgai, buffalo, elk, zebra, camel, cattle, and yak. While on the wagon ride used for the public to feed the animals in the drive-thru portion of the facility a zebra was seen kicking a duck with its back leg causing the duck to roll on its back and was unable to right itself. After the zebra kicked the single duck, an eland was startled at the wagon and ran away stepping on numerous other ducks. The lead inspector had to ask the driver to stop to pick up the duck that was kicked by the zebra so that veterinarian could be called, and the duck could receive veterinary attention. The duck was put at the drivers feet and was unable to stand. The licensee stated that the animals get their only ration of grain from the wagon rides. The licensee also stated a round bale of hay is fed every night. Birds do not eat hay and therefore only get their ration of food during the wagon rides. The ducks competing with these large animals for food shows that they are hungry. This co-mingling of mammals and birds when feeding is leading to bird distress and injury. Birds cannot be housed with other birds and/or mammals that prevent access to food, water, or shelter by individual animals, or be hazardous to the health and well-being of each other. Birds may not be housed with other animals, including members of their own species, unless they are compatible. Compatibility must be determined in accordance with generally accepted professional practices and by actual observations to ensure that the birds are, in fact, compatible. To be corrected from this day forward, September 19, 2023 This inspection and exit interview were conducted with ______. Additional Inspectors: Kristin Ray, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER JUSTINE O MALLEY, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n

On the morning of 9/7/2023 the licensee said he let the seven dogs in the different outdoor runs all go together into the larger exercise area while doing chores and some of the dogs got in a fight before they could be separated. Male poodle (#216) had bite wounds with a deep wound on his right hind leg. The licensee reported the incident to the attending veterinarian (AV) and then took #216 to the AV the same day and has been caring for the wounds and giving medication per the AV's instructions. The AV confirmed that it was in the clinic, treated, and that daily care instructions are being followed and that a deep bite wound will take possibly up to a month to heal since deep bite wounds cannot be closed (sutured/stitched) due to higher risk of infection if closed. The incompatible grouping caused a serious wound on #216 that will take considerable time to heal. Ensure to prevent serious bite wounds by not housing incompatible dogs together. ***Correction: Ensure only compatible dogs are housed together to prevent dogs from injuring each other. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the licensee. n

Three baby Black-Eared Marmosets were transported in an enclosure that did not have the words “Live Animal” or “Wild Animals” with arrows or other markings indicating the correct upright position of the enclosure clearly marked. A lack of clear markings can inhibit correct handling and cage orientation by first responders in the event of an emergency. The licensee must ensure that on top and on one or more sides are marked with the words “Wild Animals” or “Live Animals” in letters at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) high, with arrows or other markings to indicate the correct upright position of the primary enclosure. Correct by 18-September-2023.

Five baby Asian Small Claw Otters were transported in an enclosure that did not have the words “Live Animal” or “Wild Animals” with arrows or other markings indicating the correct upright position of the enclosure clearly marked. A lack of clear markings can inhibit correct handling and cage orientation by first responders in the event of an emergency. The licensee must ensure that on top and on one or more sides are marked with the words “Wild Animals” or “Live Animals” in letters at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) high, with arrows or other markings to indicate the correct upright position of the primary enclosure. Correct by 18-September-2023. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the licensee. This inspection was conducted in Mount hope, Ohio. Additional Inspectors: DIANA CARE, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Charles Palmer, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Jonathan Tomkovitch, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Lauren Murphy, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n

* Documentation of the last regularly scheduled visit for 26 adult cats by the attending veterinarian could not be found at the time of inspection. Regularly scheduled visits are important to determine if all aspects of animal care (nutrition, health, environment, water, and air quality, etc.) are being provided. The licensee must have regularly scheduled visits by the attending veterinarian. Correct by 10/14/23. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the licensee. n

A responsible adult was not available to accompany APHIS Officials during the inspection process at 12:30 on 9/14/23. Additional Inspectors: Jennifer Walker, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICEREnd Section

On September 14, 2023, at approximately 11:52 am, a facility representative presented a pair of two-toed sloths for consignment to a sale. Each sloth was housed in its own transport enclosure, however, the transport enclosures had straight walls with no projected rims or other devices on any of the exterior walls with ventilation openings. Lack of projected rims/devices can lead to obstruction of the ventilation openings and impede circulation of air which may lead to discomfort or harm to the animals. Projected rims or other devices shall be on the exterior of the outside walls with any ventilation openings to prevent obstruction of the ventilation openings and to provide a minimum air circulation space of 1.9 centimeters (.75 inch) between the primary enclosure and any adjacent cargo or conveyance wall. To be corrected from this day, 9-16-2023, forward. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with a facility representative. This inspection was conducted in Mt. Hope, Ohio. Additional Inspectors: Jonathan Tomkovitch, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Mark Sanderbeck, ANIMAL CARE INSPECTOR DIANA CARE, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Lauren Murphy, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n

The two conures had a ruffled and unkempt appearance. In addition, the light brown chicken had feather loss, especially on the outer surface of the right wing. An abnormal appearance in birds may indicate poor condition, dietary issues, debility, stress, or a behavior issue. These birds must be examined by a veterinarian to determine an appropriate plan for diagnosis and treatment. The licensee stated the birds were examined by the attending veterinarian on September 15, 2023.

The sheep and goats were present in an outdoor pen that did not provide shade for the animals. When sunlight is likely to cause discomfort or overheating, sufficient shade is necessary to allow the animals to protect themselves. The facility must provide shelter from sunlight for the animals. The licensee stated the animals would be moved to a suitable enclosure that same day.

The sheep and goats were present in an outdoor pen that did not have adequate space for the animals. Enclosures must provide sufficient space to allow each animal to make normal postural and social adjustments with adequate freedom of movement. Inadequate space may lead to malnutrition, poor condition, debility, stress, or abnormal behavior patterns. The facility must provide the animals with enclosures that provide adequate space. The licensee stated the animals would be moved to a suitable enclosure that same day. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the licensee. Additional Inspectors: Eduardo Vivas, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER KURT HAMMEL, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n

The acquisition record of a shipment of animals was altered by the licensee and not accurate. Ten animals were represented on the document provided by the licensee as arriving April 21, 2023, however, the disposition record from the sending facility, signed as received by this licensee, only documents nine animals. Instead, one male Thomson’s gazelle was added to the licensee’s acquisition record dated April 21, 2023, by the licensee. Per the sending facility's records, the male gazelle was transferred to the licensee on September 7, 2022 in a previous shipment. An accurate record of animals acquired, owned, held, leased or otherwise in the facility's possession is required for medical and legal tracking purposes. Required information includes the name and address of the person from whom the animals were obtained, the USDA license or registration number if they are licensed or registered, the date obtained, and the species and number of animals involved. The facility shall keep and maintain records that fully and correctly disclose the required information for all animals acquired, including any offspring born of any animal while in the facility's possession. This is a 2nd Re-License Inspection for a Class “C” license. The inspection and exit briefing were conducted with the applicant. All items must be in compliance within 1 more inspection or by SEPTEMBER 23, 2023 or the applicant will forfeit the license fee and must wait 6 months to reapply. Please contact your inspector to schedule your next Re-License Inspection. Regulated activity can continue under your existing USDA license until it expires. Additional Inspectors: Tracie Crawford, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n

The facility is conducting regulated activity without a valid USDA license. The facility consigned exotic animals (5 Flying Squirrels) to an auction. Upon arrival at the sale, the facility was informed that they needed a USDA license and would receive a citation if the animals were consigned. The facility chose to proceed and consigned the animals to the auction. A valid license is necessary to protect the health and well-being of the animals and to comply with the Animal Welfare Act and Regulations. Correct by obtaining a USDA license or discontinuing regulated activities. No regulated activities may be conducted until a USDA license is obtained. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the facility Representative. This inspection was conducted in Mount Hope, Ohio. Additional Inspectors: Jonathan Tomkovitch, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Lauren Murphy, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER Charles Palmer, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER DIANA CARE, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n