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Investigation of biosecurity risks associated with the feed delivery: A pilot study
Kate Bottoms1, Cate Dewey1, Karen Richardson1
1Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1.
Biosecurity on commercial farms can be improved through better feed delivery practices. A pilot study found that providing reusable rubber boots for drivers significantly increased the use of clean footwear, enhancing farm biosecurity.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Animal Husbandry
- Veterinary Public Health
Background:
- Biosecurity is critical for preventing disease transmission in commercial livestock operations.
- Feed delivery is a potential pathway for introducing pathogens onto farms.
- Current biosecurity protocols for feed delivery may have limitations, especially regarding driver footwear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify biosecurity vulnerabilities associated with commercial feed delivery.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of reusable rubber boots for feed delivery drivers.
- To assess an alternative to disposable plastic boots, particularly for winter conditions.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study was conducted on commercial farms.
- Data were collected on daily feed delivery operations, focusing on truck, driver, and farm biosecurity.
- A reusable rubber boot intervention was implemented and compared to standard practices.
Main Results:
- Most farms demonstrated good practices in dead-stock management and site cleanliness.
- The introduction of reusable rubber boots significantly increased the rate of drivers wearing clean footwear.
- Reusable boots offer a viable alternative to disposable boots, potentially improving safety in adverse weather.
Conclusions:
- Feed delivery presents significant biosecurity risks that require careful management.
- Reusable rubber boots are an effective tool for improving driver footwear hygiene during feed deliveries.
- Implementing improved footwear protocols can enhance overall farm biosecurity and disease prevention.
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