DENVER, March 30, 2009 -- American Humane Certified announced today that Ann Wilkinson, associate director of global alliances for Pfizer Animal Health (PAH), has been appointed to its Scientific Advisory Committee. Dr. Wilkinson brings extensive expertise in the dairy industry to the seven-member animal science professional body, which is composed of animal welfare experts of each species. The committee meets regularly to review standards and ensure that they reflect new information and technology.

At Pfizer, Wilkinson is involved with the implementation of key partnerships in academia, research institutions and government to support Pfizer PAH’s strategic initiatives.  Previously she worked in strategic account management, focusing attention on the large dairies across the U.S., and in veterinary operations for the dairy group, providing technical support and education.

“We are very pleased to have Dr. Wilkinson join our Scientific Advisory Committee of well-recognized and varied animal science professionals,” said Tim Amlaw, director of American Humane Certified.  “She brings not only expertise in dairy cattle to our panel, but extensive experience in research and global animal welfare issues.”

Wilkinson received her bachelor‘s degree in veterinary science in 1987 from Massey University in New Zealand, and her master’s degree in business administration from Cornell University in 1997.  In addition to being in private practice for seven years in New Zealand and one year in New York, she was an ambulatory clinician (dairy) at Cornell and completed the Michigan State University three-year Dairy Health Management Certificate Program.  She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Bovine Practitioners, American Dairy Science Association and the New Zealand Veterinary Association.

About American Humane Certified

American Humane Certified is the United States’ first animal-welfare program dedicated to the humane treatment of farm animals. It is the fastest growing independent animal-welfare label program in the U.S. American Humane has certified producers representing more than 60 million farm animals through American Humane’s science-based program. American Humane auditors are rigorously trained in the American Humane Certified species-specific standards.  As consumers and retailers are increasingly concerned about how food is raised, producers are seeking independent verification for the marketplace. American Humane Certified believes animal welfare should not only be good for animals but also economically viable and feasible for producers. American Humane Certified works with agriculture to educate and motivate producers and demonstrate the economic and social benefits of animal welfare. American Humane Certified works closely with its independent Scientific Advisory Committee, industry professionals and producers to ensure that industry advancements and best practices are part of American Humane certification standards. Based on American Humane’s 131-year legacy of being the gold standard for humane behavior, consumers trust the American Humane Certified label. Learn more at www.thehumanetouch.org.