Backyard poultry and livestock show increasing need for veterinary care

Backyard poultry and small-scale livestock agriculture are increasingly popular in the United States, but these animals haven’t received much attention from veterinarians.

A survey by researchers at the University of California Davis and other institutions showed increasing demand for vet services for poultry and livestock in areas close to cities, as well as a need for ongoing continuing education of practitioners and animal owners.

Researchers surveyed 880 veterinarians in California, Colorado, Washington and Oregon. Most said they worked in companion animal-only or companion animal-predominant practices. While most recognized an increase in backyard poultry and livestock in their practice areas, few were actively treating these animals because of a lack of facilities, interest or experience.

“This segment of agriculture has been largely overlooked by the veterinary community in North America,” said Dr. Alda Pires, a University of California cooperative extension specialist and a co-principal investigator in the study. “Due to the potential for public health issues and the spread of zoonotic diseases, veterinary professionals need increased training and better awareness of the health and welfare of these animals.”

“Many of these owners are unfamiliar with the responsibilities and challenges of owning poultry and/or livestock,” added Dr. Ragan Adams, a Colorado State University veterinary extension specialist and co-principal investigator. “County Extension personnel can teach the new animal owners as they have taught youth in 4-H programs for more than 100 years. With enhanced knowledge about animal husbandry, the new owners will understand the importance of seeking veterinary services when their animals show signs of illness.”

The full story is available from UC Davis.