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Update Regarding Patterson Veterinary Supply and Recent PETA Allegations

Sept. 28, 2017

Recently, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) made allegations of animal mistreatment by a supplier of canine blood products, The Pet Blood Bank in Cherokee, Texas. Patterson Veterinary has served as a sales agent of these products to veterinary clinics and hospitals. Veterinary professionals use these products to help save the lives of dogs in need of serious medical treatments.

What We Believe

Consistent with our corporate values, Patterson Veterinary unequivocally condemns any abuse or mistreatment of animals. Any serious allegation of such abuse demands investigation by legitimate authorities, especially law enforcement. Furthermore, we expect our suppliers, at all times, to conduct themselves in an ethical manner, and to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

What We Know

We have been in contact with the local law enforcement who investigated these allegations. They visited The Pet Blood Bank and have publicly stated that they found no signs of abuse or neglect. Should law enforcement investigate further and find it necessary to have any dogs at The Pet Blood Bank removed, Patterson Veterinary, reflecting our commitment to animal welfare, is committed to providing resources to ensure these dogs receive appropriate care.

What We Stand For

We have a long history of commitment to animal welfare:

  • More than 70 years of partnering with the veterinary community to advance animal health. As a distributor of products and equipment to veterinary professionals, we are an integral part of the continuum of pet care. Every Patterson Veterinary employee is part of the veterinary community.
  • Our charitable giving. We contribute to both local and national animal welfare and wellness organizations. Furthermore, many of our employees regularly volunteer in veterinary clinics, animal welfare and animal wellness organizations in their local communities.
  • Our long-standing relationships with animal clinics, "no-kill" animal shelters, and animal-welfare facilities, both nationally and in central Texas. We regularly work at a local level, including most recently to support communities impacted by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

While law enforcement has found no wrongdoing, Patterson Veterinary has ceased doing business with The Pet Blood Bank of Cherokee, Texas. Patterson Veterinary recognizes that canine and other animal blood products are critical components of care for animals in need of serious medical procedures and is evaluating how it may serve that need going forward. To ensure that we didn’t interrupt any medical procedures, Patterson Veterinary contacted veterinary clinics that had pending blood products orders for acute animal care so they could make alternate arrangements.