Biosecurity for the Dairy, UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Extension Biosecurity for the Dairy Animal diseases, both foreign and domestic, can devastate livestock industries. California's multi-billion dollar livestock industry is vulnerable to outbreaks of domestic and foreign animal diseases due to its multiple international ports, more than 6 million international visitors yearly, and susceptible livestock populations. California dairies and your dairy are especially vulnerable as they contain larger numbers of animals concentrated in small areas, many purchase their replacement heifers from other ranches, often send their own heifers to calf ranches for up to two years where they are co-mingled with calves from other locations, and frequently depend on outside sources for feed.
Preventive measures are crucial to safeguard California's animals.
The risk of disease is always present. Prevent Introduction of Diseases. Viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma and pests do not respect fences. Know the origin of all meat and animal products. Educate your employees about the importance of following the biosecurity plan and their important role in making the plan work.