A Scio veterinarian accused of seriously neglecting a herd of sheep is arguing his actions were not criminal but rather the result of common farming and veterinary practices.
Brian Dietrich, 43, owner of Scio Animal Clinic, filed a notice in Linn County Circuit Court Aug. 8 declaring his intent to rely on affirmative defenses against 27 counts of second-degree animal neglect. Each count carries up to five years in prison.
Dietrich claims his alleged actions fall under a state law that allows injuries to animals in contexts such as animal husbandry and veterinary practices. The notice did not detail what specific practices were being employed.
Dietrich was arrested in July after authorities received a tip in June that a herd of sheep were allegedly experiencing prolonged neglect on a Scio farm. Deputies allegedly discovered 26 live sheep and one dead sheep in cramped conditions without access to potable water.
