Ontario’s livestock owners prioritize the health, welfare, and productivity of their cattle. Preventing disease outbreaks is crucial for maintaining herd health, reducing economic losses, and ensuring peace of mind for producers. Effective biosecurity measures minimize the introduction and spread of diseases within herds.
Preventing Disease Introduction
Managing New Arrivals
New animals are the most common source of contagious diseases. Implement these key strategies:
- Maintain a Closed Herd: Avoid introducing new cattle. If necessary, use home-grown replacements, prevent fence-line contact, and rely on artificial insemination instead of bringing in bulls.
- Isolate New Arrivals: Quarantine new animals for 21–30 days in separate housing and feeding areas. Observe for disease symptoms and conduct necessary testing.
- Know the Source of Purchases: Buy from herds with known health status, preferably those certified under the Canada Health Accredited Herds program.
- Use Vaccines: Vaccinate against common diseases such as bovine virus diarrhea (BVD) and infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) during quarantine.
Preventing Disease Spread
Managing Farm Traffic
Diseases can spread via people, animals, equipment, and vehicles. Reduce risks by:
- Controlling bird populations by sealing openings in barns.
- Implementing rodent control to prevent feed contamination.
- Restricting farm access and requiring visitors to wear protective clothing.
- Establishing designated routes for milk trucks and feed deliveries to avoid manure contamination.
Feed and Equipment Hygiene
- Avoid using manure-handling equipment for feed.
- Disinfect shared tools, needles, and dehorning equipment between uses.
- Regularly sanitize feeding troughs, water bowls, and calf nursing equipment.
Housing and Group Management
- Separate young stock from older animals to prevent disease transmission.
- Provide adequate space, clean bedding, and well-ventilated housing.
- Follow strict sanitation protocols in maternity and sick pens.
Manure and Pest Control
- Remove manure regularly to prevent fly breeding and parasite transmission.
- Store manure properly to minimize environmental contamination.
- Implement fly control measures using traps, baits, or biological methods.
Sanitation and Disinfection
Clean, sanitary conditions reduce disease spread. Select disinfectants based on their effectiveness against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Ensure they are suitable for specific applications such as footbaths, equipment sanitation, and feeding areas.
Foreign Animal Disease Control
Canada employs strict border controls to prevent the entry of foreign animal diseases (FAD). On-farm measures include limiting exposure to potentially contaminated equipment, restricting visitors from affected regions, and following strict hygiene practices after contact with foreign livestock.
Conclusion
A proactive biosecurity plan is essential for disease prevention in Ontario’s cattle industry. By implementing strict management, sanitation, and disease control measures, producers can safeguard their herds and ensure long-term farm sustainability. Always consult a veterinarian for tailored health management strategies.
