Steps to help protect livestock and poultry health

Fairs are a great chance for youth to learn leadership, community, and real-world skills. The importance of biosecurity while showing animals during fair season cannot be stressed enough. Consider the following before heading to the fair this year.

Have a good animal health program on the farm. Only bring healthy animals to the fair.

Clean and disinfect often – on the farm, on the trailer, and at the fair. That includes tools and equipment.
Keep a close eye on your animals and watch for signs of illness. Monitor their feed and water intake, especially in hot conditions. Contact the fair vet or fair officials if you have concerns.

Many fairgoers are not farm families. Talk to them about your animals. Help them learn more about where their food comes from and the work that goes into caring for livestock and poultry. Help keep visitors safe. Have hand sanitizer available and discourage petting.

After the fair, keep returning animals away from the rest of the herd/flock as long as your vet tells you. Two to 3 weeks is a common recommendation. Avoid bringing back things like open bags/containers of feed, shavings, or manure that could carry diseases.

More important tips can be found below.