(August 1, 2008)  The Old Chatham Sheepherding Co. of Old Chatham, N.Y., the largest U.S. dairy sheep farm, has been certified by the American Humane Association's farm animal-welfare program. American Humane Certified is the nation's original farm animal-welfare label.
Tom and Nancy Clark originally intended the farm as a sheep's meat operation, but they were introduced to the East Friesian lambs, a northern European breed that produces milk products.

"The love and dedication we give to our sheep and our farm is evident in the taste and quality of our products," says Clark. "We are proud to be American Humane Certified."

Producers certified through the American Humane Certified program must ensure that their animals have ready access to fresh water, a nutritious diet and medical care. Producers also must provide their animals with a comfortable environment that limits stress and enables them to freely express their normal behaviors.