Safe Animal Health Product Use

A valid veterinarian/client/patient relationship is in place. Standard treatment and vaccination protocols are developed in conjunction with your veterinarian and they are followed, including those for feed medication. Protocols are reviewed periodically. A preventive herd health management program is established.

All animal health products are used according to label directions. Feed medications are used according to the Compendium of Medicating Ingredient Brochures (CMIB). A binder is kept for reference purposes of all label inserts of all animal health products used on the farm. Only government approved health products for cattle are purchased and used. A product withdrawal sheet is posted in the treatment area.

MSDS (material safety data sheets) are kept on all hazardous materials. Workers are trained regularly on the proper use of hazardous material, including emergency assistance.

An animal health product inventory is maintained and updated regularly. Include information on the quantity of medications on hand, their lot and serial numbers, purchase date, expiration date, and date used

All products are stored according to label directions in a separate, well ventilated, clean location. Food is not stored in refrigerators that are used for animal medications.

All staff are trained, including temporary relief staff (neighbours), on proper disease detection, treatment protocols and drug use, record keeping and animal handling techniques. Staff are provided with continuing education opportunities in animal health.