New deadstock regulations in effect

By Gary Sliworsky
OMAFRA Rep.

Following is the latest Horse News and Views which is prepared by Dr. Bob Wright, Animal Health and Welfare, OMAFRA, in cooperation with the staff and researchers of the University of Guelph.
The monthly column highlights research topics, extension resources, reminders of common poisonings, disease or production concerns and coming events and is placed on our website, http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/horses/news.html.
·Planting of gladioli, and irises (flags, fleur-de-lis) along the side of paddock fences is not a good idea. Consumption of small quantities of their rhizomes or large amounts of leaves, even dried, have a purgative effect and may cause a horse’s death. Disposal of plant debris in places such as the manure pile can also be problematic if horses can reach over the fence. (Ref: Burrows GE, Tyril RJ. Toxic Plants in North America. Iowa: Iowa State Press, 2001:720-724.)
·On March 27, 2009, new regulations for the disposal of dead farm animals in Ontario came into force under;
•the Disposal of Dead Farm Animals regulation under the Nutrient Management Act and
• the Disposal of Deadstock regulation under the Food Safety and Quality Act.
The new regulations provide more disposal options for livestock producers and meat plant operators, with measures that will protect the environment. www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/deadstock/index.html
· A foal should nurse within two to four hours of birth to maximize the absorption of colostral antibodies. The foal’s intestinal tract can absorb antibodies from the colostrum for the first 24 hours after foaling. The foal should pass meconium (a yellow fecal material) by six hours after foaling. The navel should be dipped in tamed iodine or chlorhexidine solution daily for several days after birth. Ask your veterinarian for advice on the need to give tetanus antitoxin at birth and antibiotics. For more information, refer to the information sheet Foaling and Predicting Foaling Time. www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/
livestock/horses/facts/info_foaling.
For further information, contact Dr. Bob Wright (519) 846-3412 or visit our website: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/