Keep your flock or herd safe from disease by practicing these biosecurity principles. Contact your veterinarian if you suspect illness in your animals. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has several resources on biosecurity practices on their Web site: https://www.oregon.gov/oda/animal-health-feeds-livestock-id/biosecurity/Pages/default.aspx Additionally, ODA has issued emergency rules to reduce the risks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) during livestock exhibitions this summer. Most of these requirements are already in effect at state fairs, aiming to prevent disease introduction and transmission between livestock and to humans. Rules Overview * The rules apply only to exhibitions with influenza-susceptible animals and rabbits. * Influenza-Susceptible Animals: Includes waterfowl, poultry, dairy cattle, and swine. * Exhibitions must register with ODA and keep records of animals and exhibitors for 90 days, making the records available to ODA if an outbreak occurs. * Exhibitions must consult a “veterinarian of record” and ensure sick animals are not present. Lactating Dairy Cattle * Cannot be milked in public-access areas (minimum 10 feet separation). * Must have a negative HPAI test within ten days before arrival unless coming from a farm participating in HPAI surveillance testing. Testing supplies will be provided for free. Waterfowl * Cannot access open water for swimming. * Must also have a negative HPAI test within ten days unless coming from a flock certified free of avian influenza under the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP). Free testing is available. Public Exhibitions * Must provide handwashing stations at exits from animal areas and signage regarding health risks and hygiene. (fb)

May is Asthma & Allergy Awareness Month. The most common reason for skin problems and recurrent ear infections in pets is an underlying allergy. Your veterinarian or a veterinary dermatologist can diagnose what is causing your pet's skin issues or asthma and recommend a treatment plan. (fb)