Promote Animal Health
5. Georgia animals must be healthy and cared for properly.
GDA Animal industry professionals monitor and control animal diseases, supervise health requirements for marketing and transportation of livestock, poultry, exotic birds, pets and horses.
- Poultry Diagnostic Laboratory Network – As the number one poultry producing state in the nation, I commit that Georgia will always be the best prepared to respond to highly pathogenic avian influenza. Daily surveillance by the labs maintains flock health, ensures safety of the food supply and establishes trust with our global trading partners. There is no substitute for being a world leader in this arena.
- Companion Animals – Additional partnerships must continue in support of Georgia’s companion animal spay/neuter and equine health and rehabilitation programs. With the spay/neuter license plate funding formula changes, we expect our local grant program to approach $1 million in the next fiscal year. We will step up efforts to assist law enforcement agencies to enforce Georgia animal care statutes at the local level.
- Feral Hog Eradication – To protect our domestic herds, crops and environment, we must also find a control and eradication solution for feral hogs. We must expand support for trapping programs and develop a safe product that will interrupt the feral hog lifecycle without compromising the health of other wildlife.
These investments of treasure, time and expertise serve Georgia. Each in their own way demonstrate how a thoughtful animal health strategy Makes Life Better for all of us.