Animal Health
The health of Missouri’s livestock is enviable among states. Our stringent animal health regulations and rigorous disease testing help keep Missouri free from costly and threatening livestock diseases. The Animal Health Division, under the direction of the state veterinarian, is responsible for controlling, eradicating and testing for livestock disease in Missouri. This is accomplished through testing, vaccinations and regulatory programs involving cattle, swine, horses, poultry, exotic animals, sheep, goats and small animals as provided under the Diseased Animal Law. The Animal Health Division also administers programs that regulate livestock markets, dealers, brands and dead animal disposal. Recent division accomplishments include developing and implementing a comprehensive emergency management plan; developing food safety and quality assurance initiative, which include strategically located animal health information centers; and expanding the Animal Care Facilities Act Program to meet industry growth.
