OTTAWA, ONTARIO – A new online video has been launched by the Canadian government to help inform producers about on-farm practices that can protect livestock and poultry from disease.

"This online video will remind producers that farm-level biosecurity is the best investment they can make to maintain the health of their animals and their business,” said Gerry Ritz, Agriculture Minister.

The video is part of "Animal Health Starts on the Farm," an awareness campaign that encourages producers throughout Canada to revisit their disease-control plans, observe their animals for signs of illness and regularly consult with veterinarians on the health of their animals.

"Canada has one of the top animal-health systems in the world, due in large part to the commitment and efforts of producers on the farm and their veterinary practitioners," said Dr. Brian Evans, chief veterinary officer of Canada, and the executive vice-president of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. "With a vision to maintain this reputation, we think it is important to be vigilant and to re-emphasize that many simple disease-limiting practices are inexpensive and easy to undertake."

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (C.F.I.A.) has also developed national biosecurity standards, protocols and strategies for livestock, poultry and aquaculture production. These initiatives were created in collaboration with producer organizations, provincial/territorial governments and academia.

The launch of the video will coincide with the World Veterinary Day on April 24. The World Veterinary Association and the World Organization for Animal Health (O.I.E.) created World Veterinary Day to celebrate the veterinary profession and its successes.

To view the online video, visit www.inspection.gc.ca/biosecurity.