Biosecurity for New Animal Arrivals on Dairy Farms

Why New Animal Arrivals Are a Biosecurity Risk

Every new animal that enters a dairy farm is a potential introduction of disease. Cattle from other farms carry their existing herd's pathogens — mastitis organisms, respiratory viruses, enteric bacteria, external and internal parasites, and hoof disease organisms. Many of these conditions are subclinical in the animal at the time of purchase but become apparent once the animal is under the stress of transport and introduction to a new environment.

The existing herd has no immunity to pathogens they have not previously encountered. A new animal introducing Streptococcus agalactiae, BVD virus, IBR, or digital dermatitis into a herd that was previously free of those organisms can trigger a disease event affecting many animals.

The Quarantine Period

The most important biosecurity tool for new arrivals is a minimum 2–4 week quarantine in a separate facility with no direct animal contact with the resident herd. During quarantine:

• The new animals are observed for signs of disease that emerge under introduction stress
• Screening tests can be performed (BVD, Johne's disease, SCC measurement for mastitis status)
• Parasite treatment (anthelmintics, ectoparasiticides) can be administered before herd entry
• Hoof hygiene can be assessed and footbath treatment applied

Quarantine Facility Hygiene

The quarantine area should be cleaned and disinfected with DIO A+B or N421 between animal groups, the same as any livestock housing used for batch turnover.

Hoof Check and Footbath at Entry

New animals should pass through a footbath with Anderma Hoof Liquid or Pescande on arrival and during the quarantine period. Animals with visible hoof disease (digital dermatitis lesions, foot rot) should be treated individually before introduction to the herd.

Personnel and Equipment Movement

Quarantine only works if the animal separation is supported by management separation. Personnel who work with quarantine animals should use dedicated protective clothing and boot dip stations. Equipment (feeding equipment, veterinary instruments) used in the quarantine area should not be transferred to the main herd without cleaning and disinfection.

Contact AgroLyne for disinfection product selection for your quarantine and arrival management program.