Oregon Officials Seize Hundreds of Goats from Dairy Farm Amid Animal Neglect Allegations
In response to serious allegations of animal neglect, Oregon officials have intervened at a dairy farm in Nyssa, resulting in the seizure of 239 goats. The operation was carried out by the Malheur County Sheriff's Office on February 4, following a tip-off from the animal rights group, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). According to the Sheriff's report, the conditions at Grand Barr Dairy were dire, with multiple goats suffering from severe health issues.
Former employees of the dairy had raised concerns after observing numerous goats in poor health, which prompted PETA to conduct an undercover investigation. The investigation revealed animals with overgrown hooves, abscesses, and deformities. Additionally, one goat tested positive for two contagious diseases, raising further alarm about the state of animal welfare at the farm.
Following these findings, PETA provided the Malheur County Sheriff's Office with extensive evidence, including photos, videos, and affidavits. Despite these reports, no immediate action was initially taken, leading PETA to push for further investigation in October and December 2025.
The seized goats were transported to an out-of-state dairy for temporary care, while efforts are being made to relocate them to an animal sanctuary. However, three goats had to be humanely euthanized due to the severity of their conditions. The Oregon Department of Justice, with assistance from the Malheur County Prosecutor’s Office, is handling the prosecution of this case. Charges may include first- and second-degree animal neglect.
PETA criticized the decision to relocate some goats to another dairy farm, asserting that this does not address the root of the problem. "Oregon officials were right to rescue these long-neglected goats," stated PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. "But sending them to another farm is akin to rescuing dogs from a puppy mill only to place them in a similar situation."
