"Animal biosecurity" is a general description for a set of measures designed to protect Canada's animal resources from foreign and established infectious and parasitic disease agents at the national, regional, and farm levels.

Producers are in a unique position to prevent disease exposure and transmission. By knowing and implementing the appropriate biosecurity protocols, producers are working to protect their farms and the health and vitality of Canada's livestock industry.

Biosecurity protocols STOP disease from entering the herd (bioexclusion), spreading within the herd (biomanagement), and leaving the herd (biocontainment).

Producers should be aware of and follow normal biosecurity standards, as set out in the National Biosecurity Standards and Biosecurity Principles and the National Farm Level Biosecurity Planning Guide.

Some degree of biosecurity is likely already incorporated into your farm routines. Be it good hygiene, vehicle management or staff training, there are quick and simple steps that can safeguard your operation. As shown below, biosecurity protocols are colour-coded according to risk.

Producers will want to ensure that all staff know the various protocols for each risk level. This is especially important when a disease is suspected within the trading area.

Take action:

• Minimize the potential for a serious animal disease outbreak by reviewing and improving biosecurity practices. 
• Review triggers that could signal the start of a serious animal disease outbreak and appropriate immediate actions.  

These measures are recommended as a precaution and are the producers' responsibility in ensuring that the Canadian livestock industry is protected and prepared for a serious animal disease outbreak.

Protecting the health of your animals is vital for maintaining a thriving farm and supporting Canada’s agricultural industry. Strong biosecurity measures are your first line of defense against disease, helping to minimize risks and safeguard livestock well-being. This page offers a list of practical biosecurity resources tailored to various animal groups to help you implement effective biosecurity measures.

If you observe signs of illness, act immediately by reporting them to your veterinarian, provincial animal health authority, or Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Early detection and swift action are key to protecting Canada’s poultry and livestock industries.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

• Biosecurity resources for poultry

	Biosecurity guidelines for poultry abattoir inspectors and workers
	Click here for biosecurity resources for poultry smallholders

• Biosecurity Resources for Cattle
• Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza biosecurity infographic for dairy farmers
• Biosecurity recommendations for Canadian fairs and exhibits

• Biosecurity Resources for Pigs

	Biosecurity Standards in Laboratory Pig and Research Environments
	Click here for biosecurity resources for pig smallholders

Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)

Animal Health Canada and the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) partnered to develop and distribute biosecurity resources to Canadian beef producers that will allow them to be better equipped with the knowledge, tools, and practices needed to prevent and manage the risks associated with FAD outbreaks.

View all resources for beef producers here.