Bull sales will require precautions this year

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Published: April 9, 2020

Bull sales are scheduled across the Prairies in coming weeks and months amid the threat of COVID-19 spread.

Sales are the main source of income for many producers so the Livestock Markets Association of Canada, Canadian Beef Breeds Council and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association have distributed a list of recommendations.

Those hosting sales should:

  • make cattle available for viewing prior to the sale
  • make online or phone bidding available where possible
  • limit attendance to a maximum of 50 people
  • Read Also

    Andy Lassey was talking about Antler Bio, a company that ties management to genetic potential through epigenetics.

    VIDEO: British company Antler Bio brings epigenetics to dairy farms

    British company Antler Bio is bringing epigenetics to dairy farms using blood tests help tie how management is meeting the genetic potential of the animals.

  • consider online photos and videos as an alternative
  • restrict general public access
  • do not shake hands and maintain a social distance of two metres
  • provide information to employees on COVID-19
  • provide hand sanitizer in common areas
  • provide space for hand washing
  • consider not providing food
  • frequently sanitize workstations and pay special attention to telephones, computer keyboards, calculators, desks, photocopiers, counters and common areas shared by more than one person on a regular basis

Those buying cattle and attending sales should:

  • where possible view bulls ahead of the sale
  • not attend sales without an intention to buy or seriously considering buying
  • not attend a sale if sick with even mild symptoms
  • send one person per farm operation
  • not shake hands and maintain a two-metre social distance
  • consider phone bidding
  • consider online bidding
  • consider online photos, video as alternative to in person viewing
  • wash hands thoroughly and frequently

explore

Stories from our other publications