Follow rules to guard against foot-and-mouth

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LETHBRIDGE, Alta. — Foot-and-mouth disease can be kept out of Canada, but it will take work and co-operation, says a former provincial veterinarian.

Joyce Van Donkersgoed, a spokes-person for the Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association and Alberta Livestock Coalition, has developed a biosecurity program. Her recommendations:

Do not buy livestock or animal products, such as semen or embryos, of unknown origin or unknown health status.
Do not import meat or dairy products from foreign countries unless approved by CFIA.
Do not feed animal products, including meat and dairy, to livestock unless approved by CFIA.

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Do not buy feed, including bedding, from an unknown origin or from unreputable suppliers.
Do not import other animal products, such as hides, wool and pharmaceuticals, including vaccines, unless approved by CFIA.
Do not allow visitors on the farm from a country with foot-and-mouth if they arrived less than 14 days ago.
Only allow visitors when necessary. Farmers can refuse entry to anyone if they feel adequate biosecurity measures have not been taken.

Have a written visitor log in the office or house where all visitors must sign in. Visitors should print their name legibly, including date of visit, reason for visit and the last livestock contact.
Post clear farm entrance signs indicating that all visitors must report to the office or house before entering the farmyard. If it is necessary for visitors to leave their vehicle, provide them with boots and coveralls.
Provide visitors with clean foot-wear and coveralls. Clean and disinfect clothing between visitors.
Clean and disinfect used equipment and supplies, including stock trailers and trucks.
Do not accept gifts of meat, dairy or animal products from foreign countries with FMD unless inspected and approved by CFIA. If you receive these products in the mail, check with the CFIA to see if they are acceptable. Otherwise, burn them in the garbage. Do not dispose of meat, dairy, and animal byproducts where they could be eaten by animals.