Page 179 - Microsoft Word - Annual Report 2016

ANIMAL INSPECTOR

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 2016 inspections: Over 125 properties were visited with 120 having
livestock or poultry currently in residence. The following numbers were recorded:
181 horses, 31 ponies, 11 miniature horses, 13 donkeys, 68 goats, 55 sheep, 13 head of
cattle, 3 llamas, 5 pet pigs, and 69 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 2016, 11 incidents involving domestic
animals biting/scratching humans or domestic animals were reported. Ten day
quarantines were completed without complication in 9 cases, 2 cases carry over into
2017. One case carried over from 2015 was also successfully released. 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. Ten quarantines were completed without incident. One
quarantine carries over into 2017. Two quarantines carried over from 2015 were also
successfully released. Owners please keep all pets current on rabies vaccinations – it is
very important for the safety of your pet and your family.

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