Animal Health

April 8 Total Solar Eclipse and Implications for Farmers

While the April 8 eclipse may influence animal behaviors, understanding and being prepared for these natural responses will assist farmers in anticipating minor adjustments in managing their livestock, but it shouldn't cause major disruptions. 

  • The darkening sky during an eclipse may be perceived by animals as akin to nightfall, prompting behaviors such as cows returning to the barn as they associate darkness with the onset of night. This behavior is reminiscent of their instincts during dusk. 
  • Nocturnal animals may become more active during an eclipse, mistaking it for the beginning of their active period. This change could lead to observable changes, such as emerging from their resting places. 
  • Some research indicates that animals may experience increased anxiety during eclipses. This behavior may resemble anticipation of an impending storm, suggesting heightened stress levels. 
  • By being aware of these potential changes, veterinarians and farmers can better prepare and care for their animals during such events.

News

3/26/2024 - Cattle Concerns in Texas Panhandle: What You Should Know +

On March 25, USDA announced that unpasteurized, clinical samples of milk from sick cattle collected from two dairy farms in Kansas and one in Texas, as well as an oropharyngeal swab from another dairy in Texas, have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

The clinically affected herds experienced decreased herd level milk production; acute sudden drop in production with some severely impacted cows experiencing thicker, concentrated, colostrum-like milk; decrease in feed consumption with a simultaneous drop in rumen motility; abnormal tacky or loose feces, and some fever. It is believed that HPAI is the cause of their illness, but the situation is likely multifactorial and evolving.

We will continue to post the latest information here. Prior to this announcement, and just last week, Minnesota detected the virus in a baby goat and this was the first time that HPAI has been detected in US livestock. There is no concern to the commercial milk supply at this point. Pasteurization will inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk. However, less is known about raw milk and dairy products and the risk for HPAI transmission.

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3/19/2024 - The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) shared information with us regarding an animal health situation affecting dairy cattle. +

3/19/2024 - The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) shared information with us regarding an animal health situation affecting dairy cattle. TAHC is working closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to further monitor and evaluate reported cases.

Clinical signs include decreased herd level milk production; acute sudden drop in production with some severely impacted cows experiencing thicker, concentrated, colostrum like milk; decrease in feed consumption with a simultaneous drop in rumen motility; abnormal tacky or loose feces, and some fever. Impacted herds have reported older cows in mid-lactation may be more likely to be severely impacted than younger cows and fresh cows or heifers. Dry cows and heifers do not appear to be affected. In addition, some herds have reported pneumonia and clinical mastitis cases as secondary sequelae.

In Maine, a strong emphasis on enhanced biosecurity measures is encouraged. As monitoring and evaluation is underway, limiting people on and off premises and prioritizing diligent biosecurity practices is critical. We monitor animal movement into the State and we will work with TAHC if there are cattle movements planned from Texas to Maine.

Updated information regarding the situation and case definition will be provided when available. We also encourage checking the TAHC website, for situational updates and additional guidance as more information becomes available.

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Cats and dogs not for resale do not require an import permit. For rescue and resale animals, please contact Animal Welfare Program at (207) 287-3846 or visit their website.

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Import Permit Form

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Please contact Animal Health at (207) 287-3701.

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Please note that “Pet Pigs” are still considered livestock and must meet all import requirements for swine. Pet microchips are NOT acceptable forms of ID.

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Please contact Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, (207) 287-5252 or (207) 287-8000.

Please contact Animal Health, (207) 287-3701.


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