By Blake Jackson
Biosecurity should be a priority for livestock exhibitors attending county and state fairs, according to University of Missouri Extension veterinarian Cory Bromfield.
Ensuring animals are healthy before heading to the fair helps prevent the spread of disease and protects both animals and farms.
Bromfield stresses the importance of having a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), commonly known as a “health paper.” This document, issued by a licensed veterinarian, verifies that animals are disease-free and fit to be shown.
Many fairs require a CVI as a precaution to ensure only healthy animals are brought to the event, reducing the risk of spreading illness.
“If your animal shows signs of a contagious disease such as coughing, rashes, or diarrhea it’s best to leave them home to avoid risking the health of other animals,” Bromfield advises.
Bromfield adds that biosecurity doesn’t need to be complicated or costly. Simple, consistent actions can go a long way, especially during fair season.
Here are a few practical biosecurity tips:
- Use dedicated fair clothing and footwear. Avoid wearing clothes and shoes from the fair around other animals at home. Likewise, wear clean clothes when working with farm animals to avoid cross-contamination.
- Isolate returning animals. Animals that return from a fair should be kept separate from the rest of the herd for at least two weeks. Always handle them after tending to your home animals.
- Limit what comes back. Don’t bring back unneeded items like leftover feed, bedding, or manure. Clean and disinfect trailers and equipment before and after transport. Always wash hands after animal contact.
By practicing these simple precautions, livestock owners can help keep both their animals and their communities healthier during fair season.
Photo Credit: digital-visionphotodisc-photo
Categories: Missouri, Livestock