It may seem convenient to mix a newly purchased cow, buffalo, goat or sheep directly with the existing herd, but this is not a good biosecurity practice.
The animal’s previous housing, feeding conditions and disease exposure may not always be fully known. Some infections or parasite problems may also remain unnoticed initially.
Keeping the new animal separately for an observation period allows the farmer to monitor feed intake, water consumption, dung, body condition and general behaviour. Vaccination, deworming and other health requirements can also be reviewed with a veterinarian.
A little precaution can reduce unnecessary risk to the entire herd.
