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ANNUAL REPORT – ANIMAL INSPECTOR – 2015

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Bureau of Animal Health, requires that each town
appoint an Inspector who shall make regular and thorough inspection of each premise on
which there are domestic animals, in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 129 section 19.
Such inspections are necessary to insure humane and proper care of all livestock, to guard
against outbreaks of contagious disease, and to provide a census of animals in the state.

Summary of the 2015 inspections: Over 120 properties were visited with 112 having
livestock or poultry currently in residence. The following numbers were recorded: 175
horses, 31 ponies, 13 miniature horses, 13 donkeys, 48 goats, 51 sheep, 19 head of cattle,
3 llamas, 5 pet pigs, and 58 flocks of poultry comprised of chickens, ducks, geese,
turkeys, peacocks, and/or guinea fowl.

The Town of Boxford requires Barn Licenses for residents who keep livestock on their
property. Regulations and applications are available at the office of the Health Agent.

Under Massachusetts state law, all bites, whether caused by wild or domestic animals
must be reported to the Animal Inspector. In 2015, 16 incidents involving domestic
animals biting/scratching humans or domestic animals were reported. Ten day
quarantines were completed without complication in 15 cases, 1 case carries over into
2016. One additional case was transferred to the town of permanent residence of the
animal involved.

Animal Inspectors are required to investigate and issue quarantines in cases concerning
possible rabies exposure to domestic animals. Eleven such cases were reported involving
pet contact with a confirmed rabid animal, wounds of unknown origin, or exposure by
proximity. Nine quarantines were completed without incident. Two quarantines carry
over into 2016. Owners please keep all pets current on rabies vaccinations – it is very
important for the safety of your pet and your family. One case which ended with the
surrender to the Animal Rescue League of a small flock of poultry and some rabbits
required that food, water, bedding, and care be provided daily for a period of two weeks.
Allison Hayes and alternate Nancy Drago provided the necessities and care.

Because barn inspections are carried out in the winter months some livestock, principally
horses which winter at boarding facilities, are not included in the count.
The information gathered during the annual barn inspections is important for emergency
contact and planning. If you did not get a pink barn inspection form and keep horses or
other livestock on your property during the summer months, please contact Animal
Inspector Allison Hayes. Anyone with concerns about livestock health or welfare or
questions concerning rabies and quarantine procedures, please contact Allison Hayes.

The able assistance of volunteer Alternate Animal Inspector, Nancy Drago has been
greatly appreciated.

Allison Hayes, Animal Inspector

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