Any animal or bird which moves around your farm can spread infectious disease among your animals.

Remember that some animal diseases may also be transferred to people so these measures also protect you, your farm staff and visitors.

Examples.

• Wild birds and vermin drop faeces on feed surfaces and surrounding metalwork, increasing risk of infections such as Salmonella and E.coli.
• Cats may spread the parasitic infection Toxoplasmosis resulting in abortions in women and in sheep.
• Other animals posing risks to your farm include wildlife, farm dogs and vermin.

 

Steps that can be taken

Whilst it will be impossible to keep wildlife off the farm, there are steps you can take to protect your farm from these risks.

• Use appropriate fencing and deterrents.
• Make feed stores and animal areas less attractive, clean and free of spills.
• Put a rodent control plan in place with expert help.
• Take advice from your vet to keep your farm cats and dogs free of tapeworms and roundworms.
• Discuss any sick or dead wildlife with your vet as sampling or post-mortem may be advised.