Proper biosecurity measures are very important when going from one facility to another. To ensure the public is aware of what proper biosecurity measures entail, we wanted to post this article:
- Only Essential Visitors – Only allow essential visitors on the premises. Ensure you are aware of all people on-premises and advise what steps need to be taken to ensure there is no spread.
- Proper Hand Washing – ensure hands are washed before and after handling each animal and upon arrival and exit of the premises. Always wash with soap and water and sing Happy Birthday two times while washing your hands. As an added touch, using hand sanitizer afterward as an added precaution is great.
- Footwear – use disposable boot covers or even better, a separate pair of boots on the premises, change into these boots while exiting your vehicle so you don’t have to worry about disinfecting your car or other footwear.
- Change Clothes – use separate outerwear on-premises, change into these clothes while exiting your vehicle so you don’t have to worry about disinfecting your car or other footwear. You can also use protective outerwear, like coveralls. Please shower and/or change clothes when leaving the facility.
- Equipment – clean and disinfect any tools, equipment, tack, buckets, etc. when working with different animals. We have water, disinfectant soap and spray available.
- Vehicles – All vehicle and trailer tires will be sprayed with disinfectant upon arrival and before leaving.
- Footbath – We will keep a footbath with a disinfectant solution on hand (4 oz bleach, 1-gallon water) in case it’s needed.
- Signs of Illness – Look for signs of illness. If you see runny noses, coughing, or abscesses forming, isolate the animal(s) immediately.