GUYANA SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE

Diploma in Animal health and Veterinary Public Health Year 2

Animal Health Project

Amaru Erskine

Dr. Johaine. Morris

INTRODUCTION:
This project is based on the assessment of the GSA livestock farm. The researcher would be
identifying biosecurity and the general management of said farm. Also to note the research
would also be giving advice and some recommendation to assist the improvement of the facility.
THE POULTRY PRODUCTION:
What was found to be unsuitable with general animal health, management and biosecurity
principles:

1) On the first approach it was very clear that the farm is considered a mixed farm and
animals specifically cows were seen dwelling close to the pen of the young flock. Also
dogs were seen at the entrance, upon further investigation it has been concluded that they
were from the around neighborhood.

2) After approaching the poultry pens it was noticed that there was a lack of a foot bath.
This shouldn’t be since it is a mix farm, if someone came from another section and enter
the poultry pen/s they would contaminate the pen.

3) Thirdly, the first examination inside the pen the researcher noticed some holes in the
fencing of the pen.

4) Next was the presence of moss on the waterers. With refusal of daily cleaning of the
waterers this tends to occur.

5) Lastly the litter in the pen seemed to be hard in consistency.

Biosecurity:
My final assessment of the farm; Improvements need to be made in various areas. For example
there needs to be a footbath upon entrance of the pen, to prevent any contamination someone
may try to enter the pen with. Also the dogs at the entrance of the farm shouldn’t be present
because in most cases they would be the cause of introduction of certain diseases on the farm.
Also if they have easy access unto the farm who knows what other wild animal might have that
same access.

General Animal Management:

The holes in the pen needs to be filled to prevent rodents and other predators using this as easy
access to a free meal. Next the consistency of the litter; the shavings shouldn’t be hard in
consistency because the heat that stays under the litter breeds rodents, as seen first-hand rats use
it to lay there young.

My Recommendations:
1) I would initiate the building of a foot bath which must be cleaned and refilled regularly.

2) Abut immediate fixing of the hole in the fencing of the pen and also ensure there is no
other means by which other animals can have access to the flock.

3) Next the waterers should be cleaned with bleach at least once per day and treat the water
supply that refills it if automatic waters are used.

4) Also ensure that if any time there is wet shaving, that you get rid of it immediately and
turn and change the shaving more often.

5) Construct an additional fencing around the poultry section to avoid other farm animals
from coming in close contact with the flocks.
PICTURES:

Animal near pen.

Lack of footbath
 Hole in fencing

Dirty waterer