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ANIMAL HEALTH PRODUCT HANDLING AND MANAGEMENT

Animal Science

Scott Jensen
Area Extension Educator-Range
University of Idaho
MARSING

Abstract

The Code of Federal Regulations states that “biological products shall be protected at all times against improper storage and handling. Completed product shall be kept under refrigeration at 35 to 45°F. (2 to 7°C.) unless the “inherent nature of the product makes storage at a different temperature advisable” (APHIS, 2007). This code further states that biological products shall be considered worthless after the expiration date has passed. Studies completed in several states have identified 25 to 76% of refrigerators used for storage of animal health products are unacceptable due to temperature related issues. This includes being set improperly, temperature variations in the function of the refrigeration unit, variability due to location, poor maintenance of the unit, etc. Such variations lead to incorrect storage conditions for animal health products which may ultimately compromise the effectiveness of the product. Chute-side practices can also affect vaccine efficacy. Ineffective animal health products may affect the quality of beef delivered to the consumer. Animals vaccinated with ineffective products are more likely to become sick and need antibiotic treatment. Stress caused by disease/sickness can reduce carcass quality. Hard data regarding animal health product storage and management should positively influence Idaho cattle producers to improve “on ranch” practices. Improved practices should lead to more effective use of animal health products, result in fewer disease/sickness problems, and improve beef carcass quality. Authors: Wilson, R., Stephanie Etter, Jensen, K.S., Church, J., Nash, S., Keetch, G., Fife, T., Glaze, B., Gunn, D., Williams, S., Baker, S.
  1. Wilson, R. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83617
  2. Stephanie Etter Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83605
  3. Jensen, K.S. Extension Educator, University Of Idaho, Idaho, 83639
  4. Church, J. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83530
  5. Nash, S. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83221
  6. Keetch, G. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83612
  7. Fife, T. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83301
  8. Glaze, B. Extension Beef Cattle Specialist, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83301
  9. Gunn, D. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83203
  10. Williams, S. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83467
  11. Baker, S. Extension Educator, Univeristy of Idaho, Idaho, 83226