# Camel Pasture and Forage Management: Grazing Systems and Browse Species ## Key Takeaways - Rotational and seasonal grazing systems are superior to continuous grazing for camels in arid regions, promoting even forage utilization and land recovery by allowing rest periods for plant regrowth, thereby mitigating patch degradation and overgrazing near water and shade. - Camels possess a specialized digestive system enabling efficient utilization of fibrous forage, but their nutritional requirements vary significantly across production stages (lactating, growing, working), necessitating forage quality assessment (crude protein, NDF, ADF) and potential supplementation during periods of low forage availability or quality. - Browse-only systems are highly suitable for arid environments, leveraging native or introduced shrubs and trees; effective management involves understanding species palatability, regrowth capacity, and implementing controlled browsing to prevent overconsumption and maintain plant health. - Pasture improvement strategies, including soil fertility management (manure/compost application), water harvesting, reseeding with adapted species (e.g., legumes for nitrogen fixation), and invasive species control, are critical for enhancing forage productivity and land sustainability. - Comprehensive record-keeping of pasture condition (grazing dates, plant cover, species composition), camel performance (body condition scores, weight changes), and water/supplement intake is essential for monitoring management effectiveness and identifying nutritional deficiencies or overgrazing early. - Common failure patterns include overgrazing leading to soil erosion and reduced plant cover, underutilization of browse species, and nutritional deficiencies manifesting as poor body condition or increased disease susceptibility, all of which can be addressed through appropriate grazing system design and management adjustments. --- Camel pasture and forage management involves selecting appropriate grazing systems and browse species to meet the nutritional needs of camels while maintaining long-term land productivity. This guide provides practical information on suitable forage species, rotational and continuous grazing approaches, browse utilization, and pasture improvement strategies for camel farmers and land managers. The content draws on resources from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), and USDA agricultural agencies to support evidence-based decision-making. ## At a Glance: Camel Grazing System Comparison The table below summarizes key characteristics of common grazing systems for camels, helping farmers choose an approach based on their land, herd size, and management capacity. | Grazing System | Forage Utilization | Land Recovery | Labor Requirement | Suitability for Arid Regions | |----------------|-------------------|---------------|-------------------|------------------------------| | Continuous grazing | Low to moderate, camels select preferred plants | Poor, overgrazed areas near water and shade | Low, minimal movement of animals | Limited, risk of patch degradation | | Rotational grazing | High, even use of available forage | Good, rest periods allow regrowth | Moderate to high, requires fencing and movement | Suitable with adequate paddock numbers | | Seasonal grazing | Moderate, timed with plant growth cycles | Good, avoids grazing during vulnerable periods | Moderate, planning and timing required | Well-suited, matches rainfall patterns | | Browse-only system | Variable, depends on species diversity | Variable, can maintain shrub health | Low to moderate, requires knowledge of browse species | Highly suitable, uses native vegetation | ## Camel Forage Requirements and Nutritional Considerations Camels are adapted to consume a wide range of plant materials, including grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees. Their digestive system allows them to utilize fibrous forage that other livestock cannot efficiently process. Understanding the nutritional needs of camels at different life stages and production phases is essential for pasture and forage management. ### Nutrient Demands Across Production Stages Lactating females, growing calves, and working males have higher energy and protein requirements than dry, non-pregnant adults. Forage quality and availability must be matched to these demands. During drought or periods of low forage quality, supplemental feeding may be necessary. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides resources on livestock nutrition and feeding strategies that apply to camel management (https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Water Requirements and Forage Interactions Camels can tolerate significant water loss, but they require regular access to water when consuming dry forage. Green browse and fresh pasture provide some moisture, reducing drinking frequency. When camels graze on dry rangeland or consume hay, water availability becomes critical. Farmers should monitor water sources and ensure they are clean and accessible. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides information on animal health and welfare, including water management for livestock (https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Forage Quality Assessment Forage quality varies with plant species, growth stage, and season. Young, actively growing plants have higher protein and lower fiber content than mature plants. Farmers can assess forage quality by observing plant growth stage and, if needed, sending samples for laboratory analysis. Crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber are standard measures. Forage analysis helps determine if supplementation is needed. ## Grazing Systems for Camels Selecting a grazing system depends on land size, forage type, herd size, and management goals. Each system has advantages and limitations that affect both animal performance and land condition. ### Continuous Grazing In continuous grazing, camels have unrestricted access to a pasture or rangeland area for an extended period. This system requires minimal infrastructure and labor. However, it often leads to uneven forage use. Camels concentrate grazing near water points, shade, and preferred plant species, causing overgrazing in those areas while other parts of the pasture remain underutilized. Over time, continuous grazing reduces plant diversity and productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid environments. Farmers using continuous grazing should monitor pasture condition regularly. Signs of overgrazing include reduced plant cover, soil erosion, and the spread of unpalatable or invasive species. If these signs appear, reducing stocking density or moving to a rotational system may be necessary. ### Rotational Grazing Rotational grazing involves dividing the pasture into paddocks and moving camels between them on a scheduled basis. This system allows grazed paddocks to rest and regrow before camels return. The rest period length depends on plant growth rates, which vary with rainfall, temperature, and season. Benefits of rotational grazing include more even forage utilization, improved plant regrowth, and better soil health. Camels also benefit from access to higher-quality forage in each paddock. The main challenges are the cost of fencing and water infrastructure and the labor required to move animals. A practical rotational grazing plan for camels might involve 4 to 8 paddocks with grazing periods of 7 to 14 days and rest periods of 30 to 60 days, adjusted for local conditions. Farmers should observe plant recovery before returning camels to a paddock. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides information on grazing management and forage systems that can be adapted for camel operations (https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). ### Seasonal Grazing Seasonal grazing aligns grazing periods with plant growth cycles. In arid and semi-arid regions, this means grazing during the wet season when forage is abundant and resting pastures during the dry season. This system mimics natural migration patterns of wild camelids and reduces pressure on plants during vulnerable periods. Farmers using seasonal grazing must plan for feed shortages during the dry season. Hay, silage, or concentrate supplements may be needed. The timing of grazing should avoid periods when key forage species are flowering or setting seed, as this can reduce long-term plant populations. ### Browse-Only Systems Camels are natural browsers and can thrive on diets composed primarily of shrubs and trees. Browse-only systems rely on native or planted woody species for forage. These systems are well-suited to arid regions where grasses are sparse or seasonal. Managing browse requires knowledge of which species are palatable and nutritious for camels. Farmers should also consider the regrowth capacity of browse plants. Overbrowsing can kill shrubs or reduce their productivity. Rotating camels between browse areas allows plants to recover. ## Browse Species for Camels Camels consume a wide variety of browse species, including acacias, saltbushes, and other drought-tolerant shrubs and trees. Selecting appropriate browse species for planting or preservation depends on local climate, soil, and water availability. ### Native Browse Species Native plants are adapted to local conditions and often require less management than introduced species. Common native browse species for camels include various Acacia species, which provide protein-rich leaves and pods. Other native shrubs such as Atriplex (saltbush) species are highly palatable and tolerate saline soils. Farmers should identify which native browse species are present on their land and assess their condition. Protecting and encouraging these species through controlled grazing and, if necessary, reseeding can improve forage availability. The FAO Domestic Animal Diversity Information System provides resources on livestock production systems and the role of native vegetation (https://www.fao.org/dad-is). ### Introduced Browse Species Introduced browse species may offer higher productivity or better nutritional value than native plants. However, they require careful evaluation before planting. Factors to consider include adaptation to local climate and soil, palatability to camels, potential to become invasive, and water requirements. Examples of introduced browse species used in camel systems include Leucaena leucocephala and Prosopis species. These trees provide high-protein forage but may require management to prevent overuse or spread. Farmers should consult local agricultural extension services before introducing new species. ### Browse Management Practices Managing browse for camels involves controlling the timing and intensity of browsing. Camels should be moved to new browse areas before preferred plants are overused. Allowing plants to recover between browsing events maintains their productivity and longevity. In some systems, farmers cut branches from trees and shrubs to feed camels in confinement. This practice, known as lopping, can provide forage during dry periods but must be done sustainably. Overlopping weakens trees and reduces future forage production. ## Pasture Improvement Strategies Improving pasture productivity and quality benefits both camels and land health. Strategies include soil management, reseeding, weed control, and water management. ### Soil Fertility and Water Management Soil fertility affects forage growth and quality. In many arid and semi-arid regions, soils are low in organic matter and nutrients. Applying manure or compost can improve soil structure and nutrient content. However, farmers should test soil before applying amendments to avoid overapplication. Water management is critical in dry regions. Rainwater harvesting, contour plowing, and other techniques can increase water infiltration and reduce runoff. These practices support forage growth and reduce erosion. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on soil and water management relevant to livestock operations (https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Reseeding and Planting Forage Species Reseeding degraded pastures with adapted grass and legume species can improve forage quantity and quality. Species selection should consider drought tolerance, palatability, and compatibility with existing vegetation. Legumes such as Medicago species (medics) and Trifolium species (clovers) can fix nitrogen and improve soil fertility. Planting methods include broadcasting seed, drilling, or using seed balls. Timing planting to coincide with expected rainfall increases establishment success. Farmers should protect newly seeded areas from grazing until plants are well established. ### Weed and Invasive Species Control Weeds and invasive plants reduce pasture productivity and may be unpalatable or toxic to camels. Control methods include mechanical removal, grazing management, and, where appropriate, herbicide application. Farmers should identify problem species and develop a control plan. Preventing weed introduction is more effective than controlling established infestations. Cleaning equipment and vehicles before entering pastures reduces the risk of spreading weed seeds. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides information on animal feed safety, including risks from toxic plants (https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). ## Practical Implementation Steps for Camel Pasture Management Implementing a pasture management system requires planning, observation, and adjustment. The following steps provide a framework for camel farmers. ### Step 1: Assess Land and Forage Resources Begin by mapping the land and identifying existing forage species. Note the distribution of grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees. Assess soil type, slope, and water availability. This baseline information guides decisions about grazing systems and improvement strategies. ### Step 2: Determine Stocking Rate Stocking rate is the number of camels per unit area over a defined period. The appropriate rate depends on forage productivity, camel size and class, and management goals. Overstocking leads to overgrazing and land degradation. Understocking wastes forage resources. Farmers can estimate stocking rate by measuring available forage and calculating daily intake. A general guideline is that a mature camel consumes 2 to 3 percent of its body weight in dry matter per day. However, actual intake varies with forage quality and animal condition. Adjust stocking rates based on observation of pasture condition and camel body condition. ### Step 3: Design Grazing System Based on land assessment and goals, select a grazing system. For most camel operations, rotational or seasonal grazing provides better outcomes than continuous grazing. Design paddock layout to minimize travel distance to water and to use natural features such as ridges and waterways as boundaries. ### Step 4: Implement Grazing Schedule Develop a grazing schedule that specifies when camels enter and leave each paddock. The schedule should be flexible to account for weather, plant growth, and camel condition. Record grazing dates and observations for each paddock. ### Step 5: Monitor and Adjust Regular monitoring is essential for successful pasture management. Observe plant height, cover, and species composition. Assess camel body condition and behavior. Adjust stocking rates, grazing periods, and rest periods based on these observations. ## Records and Measurements Keeping accurate records helps farmers track pasture condition, camel performance, and management effectiveness. The following records are useful for camel pasture management. ### Pasture Condition Records Record the following for each paddock or grazing area: - Date of grazing entry and exit - Estimated forage height and cover before and after grazing - [Dominant](/blog/careers/dominant-definition-biology) plant species and their condition - Signs of overgrazing, erosion, or weed invasion - Rainfall and temperature data ### Camel Performance Records Track camel body condition scores, weight changes, and health events. [Body condition scoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/body-condition-scoring-a-tool-for-feed-management) uses a scale from 1 (emaciated) to 5 (obese). Regular scoring helps identify nutritional problems early. Record any cases of illness, injury, or death and note possible links to pasture conditions. ### Water and Supplement Records Record water source condition, water consumption estimates, and any supplemental feed provided. This information helps identify periods when forage quality or quantity is insufficient. ## Common Failure Patterns in Camel Pasture Management Recognizing common problems helps farmers take corrective action before significant damage occurs. ### Overgrazing and Patch Degradation Overgrazing occurs when camels remove more forage than plants can regrow. Signs include bare soil, reduced plant cover, and dominance of unpalatable species. Overgrazing is most common near water points and shade in continuous grazing systems. Rotational grazing and reducing stocking density can prevent this problem. ### Underutilization of Browse Camels may ignore certain browse species if more palatable options are available. This leads to uneven use and can allow less desirable plants to spread. Moving camels to areas with underutilized browse or temporarily restricting access to preferred species can encourage more even use. ### Soil Erosion Soil erosion results from loss of plant cover, particularly on slopes and in areas with light soils. Erosion reduces soil fertility and water-holding capacity. Preventing overgrazing, maintaining plant cover, and using erosion control structures are key management practices. ### Nutritional Deficiencies Camels grazing on low-quality forage may develop nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein, energy, and minerals. Signs include poor body condition, reduced milk production, and increased susceptibility to disease. Supplementing with protein-rich browse, hay, or concentrates can address deficiencies. The World Organisation for Animal Health provides resources on animal health and nutrition (https://www.woah.org/). ## Welfare and Safety Context Proper pasture management supports [camel welfare](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/camel-welfare-standards-handling-transport-slaughter) by providing adequate nutrition, reducing stress, and preventing injury. Poor management can lead to welfare problems. ### Welfare Indicators Monitor camels for signs of poor welfare, including: - Low body condition scores - Lethargy or weakness - Lameness or hoof problems - Skin lesions or parasite infestations - Aggressive behavior or social stress If welfare problems are identified, investigate pasture conditions, stocking density, and water availability as potential causes. ### Worker Safety Handling camels in pasture settings requires awareness of animal behavior. Camels can kick, bite, or crush handlers, particularly when protecting young or during breeding season. Use proper handling facilities and techniques. Train workers in camel behavior and safe handling practices. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Considerations For camels raised for meat or milk production, pasture management affects food safety. Avoid grazing camels on pastures contaminated with manure from other species, as this can introduce pathogens. Ensure water sources are clean. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides guidance on animal feed and food safety (https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). ## Professional Escalation Criteria Some pasture and camel health problems require professional assistance. Consult a veterinarian, livestock nutritionist, or agricultural extension specialist in the following situations: - Unexplained illness or death in multiple camels - Persistent poor body condition despite adequate forage availability - Suspected toxic plant ingestion - Severe soil erosion or land degradation - Need for soil testing or forage analysis - Introduction of new forage species or grazing systems ## Practical Decision Framework for Camel Browse Species Selection Selecting appropriate browse species for camel grazing requires a systematic approach that balances nutritional value, [environmental adaptation](/blog/careers/environmental-adaptation-how-organisms-adjust-and-what-it-means-for-careers), and long-term sustainability. The following decision framework helps farmers evaluate and choose browse species based on their specific conditions and management goals. ### Step 1: Assess Environmental Constraints Begin by documenting the key environmental factors that will influence browse species survival and productivity. Record the following for each potential planting area: - Annual rainfall amount and seasonal distribution - Soil type, depth, and drainage characteristics - Soil salinity levels and pH - Temperature extremes and frost frequency - Slope and aspect This baseline assessment determines which species are likely to establish and persist. For example, Atriplex species tolerate saline soils where many other plants cannot grow, while Acacia species prefer well-drained soils and can withstand extended dry periods. The FAO Domestic Animal Diversity Information System provides resources on livestock production systems and the role of native vegetation in different environments (https://www.fao.org/dad-is). ### Step 2: Evaluate Nutritional Value and Palatability Not all browse species provide adequate nutrition for camels. Use the following criteria to assess potential species: - Crude protein content: Target species with at least 8 to 12 percent crude protein for maintenance, and higher levels for lactating or growing animals - Fiber content: Moderate neutral detergent fiber levels indicate digestible forage - Mineral composition: Calcium, phosphorus, and trace mineral levels should meet camel requirements - Palatability: Observe camel preference during trial feeding or consult local knowledge Create a simple scoring system for each candidate species. Rate each criterion on a scale of 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent) and calculate a total score. Species scoring above 15 out of 25 are generally suitable for inclusion in a camel browse system. ### Step 3: Assess Regrowth Capacity and Sustainability Browse species must withstand repeated defoliation without declining in productivity or dying. Evaluate the following characteristics: - Ability to resprout after browsing or cutting - Root system depth and extent - Growth rate during favorable seasons - Seed production and natural regeneration capacity Species that resprout vigorously from the base or along stems are more suitable for rotational browsing systems. Slow-growing species with limited regrowth capacity should be used sparingly or reserved for occasional feeding. ### Step 4: Consider Management Requirements Different browse species require different levels of management. Assess your capacity to provide: - Protection from overbrowsing during establishment - Periodic rest periods for recovery - Weed control around young plants - Irrigation during establishment if rainfall is unreliable Introduced species such as Leucaena leucocephala may require more intensive management than native species. Farmers with limited labor or infrastructure should prioritize hardy, low-maintenance native species. ### Step 5: Test on a Small Scale Before Full Planting Before committing to large-scale planting, establish small trial plots with candidate species. Monitor the following over at least two growing seasons: - Survival rate after the first dry season - Growth rate and biomass production - Palatability when offered to camels - Regrowth after initial browsing Document observations in a simple record sheet. Compare trial results against your environmental constraints and nutritional goals. Only species that perform well in trials should be planted at scale. ## Browse Species Selection Record System Maintain a standardized record for each browse species considered or planted. The following template provides a practical format: | Field | Entry | |-------|-------| | Species name (common and scientific) | | | Source of planting material | | | Date planted | | | Location and soil type | | | Rainfall during establishment period | | | Survival rate at 6 months | | | Survival rate at 12 months | | | Height at 6 months | | | Height at 12 months | | | Palatability score (1-5) | | | Regrowth score after first browsing (1-5) | | | Notes on pests, diseases, or other issues | | Update records at least twice per year. Compare performance across species and locations to refine future planting decisions. ## Troubleshooting Common Browse Establishment Problems Even with careful planning, browse establishment can fail. The following table outlines common problems and corrective actions: | Problem | Likely Cause | Corrective Action | |---------|--------------|-------------------| | High seedling mortality | Insufficient water during establishment | Provide supplemental irrigation or delay planting until rainy season | | Poor growth | Low soil fertility or incorrect pH | Test soil and apply appropriate amendments | | Seedlings eaten by wildlife | Lack of protection | Install fencing or tree guards until plants are established | | Low palatability to camels | Species not preferred | Offer alternative species or introduce gradually through mixed planting | | Slow regrowth after browsing | Overbrowsing or species intolerance | Extend rest periods and reduce browsing intensity | If problems persist after corrective actions, consider replacing the species with a better-adapted alternative. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides information on forage species adaptation and management that can guide species selection (https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). ## Integration with Grazing Systems Browse species selection should align with the chosen grazing system. In rotational grazing systems, plant browse species in blocks that correspond to paddock divisions. This allows camels to access browse during each grazing period while providing rest for recovery. In browse-only systems, plant a diversity of species with different growth habits and seasonal productivity. This ensures year-round forage availability and reduces pressure on any single species. Include early-season, mid-season, and late-season producers to extend the grazing window. For seasonal grazing systems, prioritize browse species that maintain green leaves during the dry season. These species provide critical nutrition when grasses are dormant or absent. Acacia tortilis and Prosopis cineraria are examples of species that retain leaves through dry periods in many arid regions. ## Monitoring Browse Health and Productivity Regular monitoring helps detect problems before they become severe. Conduct the following checks at least quarterly: - Visual assessment of leaf cover and new growth - Count of dead or dying branches - Presence of pests or disease symptoms - Evidence of overbrowsing such as bark stripping or branch breakage - Soil condition around the base of plants Record observations in the species record system. If browse health declines, investigate potential causes including drought, pest outbreaks, or excessive browsing pressure. Adjust management accordingly. ## When to Seek Professional Advice Consult a local agricultural extension officer, range ecologist, or livestock nutritionist in the following situations: - High mortality rates during establishment despite following recommended practices - Unexplained decline in browse productivity after several years of good performance - Suspected nutrient deficiencies or toxicities in camels linked to browse consumption - Need for soil testing or plant tissue analysis to guide fertilization - Introduction of species not previously grown in your area The World Organisation for Animal Health provides resources on animal health and nutrition that can support professional consultations (https://www.woah.org/). ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the best grazing system for camels in arid regions? Rotational or seasonal grazing systems are generally best for arid regions because they allow forage plants to recover between grazing periods. Continuous grazing often leads to overgrazing near water points and shade. The choice depends on land size, infrastructure, and management capacity. ### Which browse species are most suitable for camels? Camels consume many browse species, including Acacia, Atriplex (saltbush), and Prosopis species. Native species adapted to local conditions are often the best choice. Farmers should identify which browse species are present on their land and manage them for sustainable use. ### How many camels can I graze per hectare? Stocking rate depends on forage productivity, which varies with rainfall, soil, and management. A general approach is to estimate available forage and divide by daily intake per camel. Start with a conservative rate and adjust based on observation of pasture condition and camel body condition. ### How long should pastures rest between grazing periods? Rest periods depend on plant growth rates. In arid regions, rest periods of 30 to 60 days are common during the growing season. During drought, rest periods may need to be longer. Observe plant recovery before returning camels to a paddock. ### Can camels graze on the same pasture as other livestock? Camels can graze with other livestock, but management must account for differences in diet preferences and behavior. Camels may compete with cattle for preferred forage. Mixed grazing can improve forage utilization if stocking rates are balanced. ### What are signs of overgrazing in camel pastures? Signs include bare soil patches, reduced plant cover, dominance of unpalatable or invasive species, soil erosion, and poor camel body condition. Regular monitoring helps detect overgrazing early. ### Do camels need supplemental feed when grazing? Supplemental feed may be needed during drought, winter, or when forage quality is low. Lactating females, growing calves, and working males have higher nutritional requirements. Provide supplements based on forage analysis and camel condition. ### How can I improve poor-quality pasture for camels? Improvement strategies include soil testing and amendment, reseeding with adapted species, controlling weeds, managing grazing to allow plant recovery, and improving water infiltration. Start with a pasture assessment to identify the most limiting factors. ## Related Farming Guides - [Dairy Cattle Farming Nutrition Housing Health Signals And Herd Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-cattle-farming-nutrition-housing-health-signals-and-herd-management) - [Livestock Nutrition And Feed Management A Cross Species Decision Framework](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/livestock-nutrition-and-feed-management-a-cross-species-decision-framework) - [Dairy Calf Colostrum Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-calf-colostrum-management) - [Dairy Calf Weaning Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-calf-weaning-management) - [Dairy Farm Manure Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-farm-manure-management) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Water Buffalo Genetic Improvement and Breeding Programs](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-genetic-improvement-breeding-programs) * [Camel Farm Biosecurity: Disease Prevention and Quarantine Protocols](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/camel-farm-biosecurity-disease-prevention-quarantine-protocols) * [Water Buffalo Farm Equipment and Infrastructure](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-farm-equipment-infrastructure) ## References and Further Reading - [www.fao.org](https://www.fao.org/dad-is) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en) - [World Organisation for Animal Health](https://www.woah.org/) - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Animal Production and Protection](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). USDA Agricultural Research Service. - [Animal and Veterinary Resources](https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.