Livestock, Companion Animals and COVID-19

Mar 25, 2020

By Joe Armstrong

Coronaviruses are one of the most common viruses we know of and are nothing new to the animal world. The CDC has stated, “While this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source ... There is no reason to think that any animals, including pets in the United States, might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus [COVID-19].”

Other coronaviruses

There is a species-specific coronavirus for almost every animal. Still, when it comes to our livestock (cows, pigs, goats, sheep) and companion animals (dogs, cats, horses), there is no evidence these viruses are able to infect humans (zoonotic).

So, should you be worried about COVID-19 affecting your livestock or companion animals? Or should you be concerned about your livestock or companion animals being a source of COVID-19? In short, the evidence suggests there is no need to worry about either situation.

Keep in mind other diseases are zoonotic, so it is always a great idea to wash your hands after touching or working with any animals. This is especially true for people who are considered immunocompromised, such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, or anyone with an immune compromising condition.

Stay safe out there. Continue to pet (and hug) your favorite livestock or companion animals.

Source : umn.edu

Video: What Does 20 MILLION Hogs a Year Look Like?

?? The Multi-Plant System Processing 20 Million Hogs Annually in the Midwest JBS USA operates multiple large-scale pork processing facilities across the Midwest, including major plants in Iowa, Minnesota, and Indiana. Combined, these facilities have the capacity to process approximately 20 million hogs annually.

Each plant operates high-speed automated slaughter systems capable of processing up to 20,000 head per day, followed by fabrication lines that break carcasses into primals, sub-primals, and case-ready retail products.

Hog procurement is coordinated through electronic marketing platforms that connect regional contract finishing operations and independent producers to plant demand schedules. This digital procurement system allows for steady supply flow and scheduling efficiency across multiple facilities.

Processing plants incorporate comprehensive food safety systems, including pathogen intervention technologies, rapid chilling processes, and integrated cold-chain management. USDA inspection is embedded throughout the harvest and fabrication stages to ensure regulatory compliance and product integrity. Finished pork products — from bulk primals to retail-ready packaged cuts — are distributed through coordinated logistics networks serving domestic and export markets.