Prevention is easier, cheaper and more effective than treatment by a veterinarian. The following practices greatly reduce the risk of lead poisoning. Do not leave petroleum products lying around or stored in open containers. Place used motor oil in sealed containers. Keep trash out of pastures and other sites that are used by animals.
Fence dump sites and bury trash.
A single dump site is safer than several sites. Clean up existing dumps. Dispose of used batteries without spilling their contents. Do not leave batteries in barns, pastures or the farmyard. Use lead-free paint on barns, fences or other structures in areas accessible to livestock.