What should you do when bringing home your 4-H project animal?
Print
EmailWhen bringing animals back to the farm, make sure to implement a biosecurity program.
It is officially spring! As we leave winter behind us, summer and the upcoming fair season are on the minds of many 4-H and FFA youth. As youth participants bring home new animals as part of their 4-H projects, biosecurity protocols should remain a top priority.
Whether you are buying your animal projects at a local store, sale yard or through a producer, it is important to separate your new animals from any other animals at your home. Ideally, any animal arriving on your property should remain separated from other animals for 21 days and by at least 30 feet. If circumstances at your farm or animal project housing area prevent you from implementing this procedure, you should keep your new and existing animals separated for at least 14 days while avoiding nose-to-nose contact with other animals.
Additionally, many youth take their animals away from home for shows or clinics. When returning home from a different farm, a fair, an exhibition, or a show, make sure to clean and disinfect your livestock trailer, equipment, footwear and any other animal-related items that may have been used while away from home. Although this can be difficult after a week of fair or long show weekend, it is a critical step in helping reduce the spread of disease on your farm.
During feeding and watering times, take a few extra minutes to observe your animals for any signs of illness. By identifying sick animals as early as possible, you can help prevent the spread of disease within your flock or herd. When making decisions about treating sick or injured animals, it is always best practice to consult with your local veterinarian.
Another measure you can take to protect your project animals and their health is to make sure to keep your personal items clean. You can do this by washing any soiled clothing, regularly cleaning and disinfecting your boots and shoes, wearing personal protective equipment, and washing your hands.
You can learn more about maintaining a biosecurity program and animal care by taking the Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) training online or finding a local in-person training taught by a Michigan State University Extension professional. To find more information about biosecurity, check out MSU Extension’s Zoonotic Disease website.
Interested in participating in 4-H animal science programs? Reach out to your local MSU Extension office to find a club near you!
