# [Pig Farming](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-farming-breeding-farrowing-nursery-grow-finish-nutrition-and-biosecurity) Business Plan: Financial Projections and Startup Costs ## Key Takeaways - Startup costs for a 10-sow farrow-to-finish operation are estimated between $39,500 and $91,500, with land/facility setup and breeding stock acquisition representing significant initial investments. Key variables influencing these costs include building materials, genetics, and source farm biosecurity. - Effective biosecurity is paramount to mitigate disease outbreaks, which can devastate herds; protocols such as visitor logs, vehicle disinfection, and animal isolation are critical, as highlighted by studies on foreign animal disease preparedness like the Secure Pork Supply framework. - Feed costs constitute 60-70% of production expenses, necessitating careful formulation and supplier relationships; feed conversion ratio is a critical performance indicator directly impacting the break-even price. - Accurate record-keeping, encompassing breeding, farrowing, weaning, growth, health, and financial data, is essential for identifying problems, making informed management decisions, and monitoring key performance indicators like pigs weaned per sow per year and feed conversion ratio. - Common failure patterns include underestimating feed costs, inadequate biosecurity, poor record-keeping, cash flow mismanagement, and overexpansion, underscoring the need for robust financial planning and phased growth. - Animal welfare and worker safety are integral, requiring adequate space allowance, environmental enrichment, temperature control, humane handling, and protocols for zoonotic disease prevention and equipment operation, with veterinary consultation crucial for disease diagnosis and response. --- This article provides a business plan framework for new pig farmers and investors, covering startup costs, cash flow projections, and break-even analysis. The content is based on established animal production principles from the USDA Agricultural Research Service ([ARS Animal Production and Protection](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection)) and the Food and Agriculture Organization ([FAO Animal Production](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en)). Readers should use this framework as a starting template and adjust all figures to local conditions, feed prices, and market access. The framework assumes a small-scale farrow-to-finish operation with 10 sows as a manageable entry point for new producers. ## At a Glance: Pig Farming Business Plan Overview The table below summarizes the core financial components for a small-scale farrow-to-finish operation with 10 sows. All figures are illustrative and must be verified against local supplier quotes and market prices. | Component | Estimated Cost Range (USD) | Key Variables | |-----------|---------------------------|---------------| | Land and facility setup | 15,000 - 40,000 | Building materials, fencing, water system, waste management | | Breeding stock (10 sows, 1 boar) | 3,000 - 8,000 | Genetics, health status, source farm biosecurity | | Feed and nutrition (first 6 months) | 8,000 - 15,000 | Local grain prices, protein supplements, feeding system | | Veterinary and health program | 1,500 - 3,500 | Vaccinations, diagnostics, biosecurity supplies | | Equipment and supplies | 2,000 - 5,000 | Feeders, waterers, handling equipment, record-keeping system | | Operating capital (6 months) | 10,000 - 20,000 | Labor, utilities, transportation, contingency | | Total estimated startup | 39,500 - 91,500 | Varies significantly by region and scale | ## Business Structure and Legal Considerations ### Entity Selection and Registration Choose a business structure that separates personal assets from farm liabilities. Common options include sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Consult a local business attorney or agricultural extension office for guidance on registration requirements, tax obligations, and liability protection. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service ([APHIS Swine Disease Information](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine)) provides resources on federal livestock identification and interstate movement requirements that may affect business registration. ### Zoning and Permitting Verify that your proposed location is zoned for livestock production. Contact county planning departments for setback requirements from residences, waterways, and property lines. Obtain necessary permits for building construction, waste management systems, and water usage. Some jurisdictions require environmental impact assessments for operations above certain animal unit thresholds. Failure to secure proper permits before construction can result in fines, forced removal of structures, or inability to operate. ### Insurance Coverage Secure property insurance for buildings and equipment, liability insurance for animal-related incidents, and livestock mortality insurance if financing requires it. Discuss coverage options with an agricultural insurance agent who understands swine production risks. Standard farm policies may not cover certain swine-specific perils such as disease outbreaks or contamination events. ## Startup Cost Breakdown ### Land and Facility Costs Land costs vary dramatically by region. For a 10-sow farrow-to-finish operation, you need approximately 1 to 2 acres for buildings, pens, feed storage, and waste management. Facility costs include: - **Housing structures**: Farrowing crates or pens, gestation stalls or group housing, nursery pens, and finishing pens. The Merck Veterinary Manual ([Management and Nutrition](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition)) provides guidance on space requirements and facility design for different production stages. - **Fencing and containment**: Perimeter fencing, internal pen dividers, and loading chutes. - **Water system**: Wells, pipes, troughs, and nipple drinkers with backup supply. - **Waste management**: Manure storage, composting area, or lagoon design compliant with local regulations. - **Feed storage**: Bins, silos, or weatherproof containers to protect feed from moisture and pests. Consider renovating existing farm buildings as a lower-cost alternative to new construction. However, verify that existing structures meet ventilation, drainage, and biosecurity requirements before committing to renovation. ### Breeding Stock Acquisition Purchase breeding stock from reputable herds with documented health status. Consider: - **Source farm biosecurity**: Request health records and vaccination protocols. The Secure Pork Supply framework, described in a 2024 study ([Description of swine producer biosecurity planning for foreign animal disease preparedness using the Secure Pork Supply framework](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38737457)), emphasizes the importance of source farm biosecurity assessments. - **Genetics selection**: Choose breeds suited to your production goals (maternal lines for sow productivity, terminal lines for growth and carcass quality). - **Quarantine protocol**: Isolate new animals for at least 30 days before introducing them to the existing herd. Document the health status of all purchased animals and retain records from the source farm. This documentation supports disease traceability and may be required for insurance claims or regulatory investigations. ### Feed and Nutrition Investment Feed represents 60 to 70 percent of total production costs. Initial feed investment covers: - **Starter feed for piglets**: High-protein, highly digestible formulations. - **Grower and finisher feed**: Balanced rations for efficient weight gain. - **Sow feed**: Gestation and lactation diets with appropriate energy and nutrient density. - **Feed additives**: Vitamins, minerals, and any approved growth promoters or gut health products. The FAO ([Animal Production](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en)) provides resources on feed formulation and nutritional management for swine. Establish relationships with multiple feed suppliers to compare prices and ensure supply continuity. Consider on-farm feed mixing if scale justifies the equipment investment and you have access to quality ingredients. ### Veterinary and Health Program Costs Establish a preventive health program with a licensed veterinarian. Costs include: - **Vaccinations**: Core vaccines for porcine circovirus, mycoplasma, and other regionally relevant diseases. - **Diagnostics**: Blood testing, fecal analysis, and necropsy services. - **Biosecurity supplies**: Boots, coveralls, disinfectants, footbaths, and handwashing stations. - **Treatment medications**: Antibiotics and other therapeutics prescribed by your veterinarian. A 2025 scoping review ([A scoping review of knowledge, attitudes, and practices in swine farm biosecurity in North America](https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1507704)) highlights that biosecurity practices vary widely among producers, and consistent implementation reduces disease risk. Budget for an initial veterinary consultation to develop a herd health plan before acquiring animals. ### Equipment and Supplies Essential equipment includes: - **Feeders**: Self-feeders for finishing pigs, creep feeders for piglets. - **Waterers**: Nipple drinkers or bowl waterers with flow rate monitoring. - **Handling equipment**: Sorting panels, loading ramp, weigh scale. - **Record-keeping system**: Paper forms or software for tracking production, health, and financial data. - **Waste management tools**: Manure scrapers, pumps, composting turners. Prioritize equipment purchases based on immediate needs and phase in additional items as cash flow allows. Used equipment can reduce startup costs but inspect thoroughly for wear and biosecurity risks. ## Cash Flow Projections ### Revenue Streams Primary revenue comes from selling market hogs at slaughter weight (typically 250 to 280 pounds). Additional revenue sources include: - **Feeder pig sales**: Selling weaned pigs to other growers. - **Breeding stock sales**: Selling replacement gilts or boars. - **Cull animals**: Selling sows or boars removed from the breeding herd. - **Manure**: Selling composted manure to crop farmers or gardeners. Diversifying revenue streams reduces dependence on a single market and can stabilize cash flow during price downturns. However, each additional revenue stream requires separate marketing effort and may increase management complexity. ### Monthly Cash Flow Template Create a monthly cash flow projection for the first 24 months. Include: - **Income**: Projected sales based on weaning rates, mortality assumptions, and market prices. - **Fixed costs**: Loan payments, insurance, property taxes, lease payments. - **Variable costs**: Feed, veterinary supplies, utilities, labor, transportation. - **Capital expenditures**: Equipment replacement, facility repairs. Update projections monthly against actual records. Adjust feeding strategies or marketing timing if cash flow becomes tight. A 2008 study ([Contingency planning: preparation of contingency plans](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18201326)) emphasizes the importance of contingency planning for unexpected events that disrupt cash flow. ### Seasonal Variations Pork prices follow seasonal patterns, typically peaking in summer and around holidays. Plan marketing to take advantage of higher price periods. Maintain a feed inventory buffer to manage price volatility in grain markets. Seasonal price patterns vary by region and market channel, so track local market data for at least one full year before relying on seasonal marketing strategies. ## Break-Even Analysis ### Calculating Break-Even Price Break-even price is the market price per pound needed to cover all production costs. Calculate it as: Total annual costs (feed, labor, veterinary, facility, overhead) divided by total pounds of pork sold. For a 10-sow operation producing approximately 200 market hogs per year (assuming 20 pigs per sow per year), total costs might range from 60,000 to 100,000 USD. Break-even price would be 0.60 to 1.00 USD per pound live weight, depending on efficiency and local costs. ### Factors Affecting Break-Even - **[Feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency)**: Pigs that convert feed to weight more efficiently lower feed costs per pound. - **Mortality rate**: Higher pre-weaning and post-weaning survival improves revenue per sow. - **Weaning rate**: Number of pigs weaned per sow per year directly affects income. - **Market weight**: Heavier pigs spread fixed costs over more pounds but may incur higher feed costs per pound. Track these factors monthly and compare your performance to industry benchmarks. Identify which variables have the largest impact on your break-even price and prioritize management attention accordingly. ### Sensitivity Analysis Test how changes in key variables affect break-even price: - Feed cost increase of 10 percent - Market price decline of 15 percent - Mortality rate increase from 5 to 10 percent - Weaning rate decrease from 10 to 8 pigs per litter Create a spreadsheet model that allows you to adjust each variable independently and observe the effect on break-even price. This analysis helps you identify which risks to prioritize in your management plan and contingency strategy. ## Production Records and Measurements ### Essential Production Records Maintain accurate records for each animal and production group: - **Breeding records**: Service dates, boar used, expected farrowing dates. - **Farrowing records**: Number born alive, stillborn, mummies, birth weights. - **Weaning records**: Weaning age, weaning weight, number weaned. - **Growth records**: Weight at key intervals, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio. - **Health records**: Vaccinations, treatments, disease incidents, mortality. The USDA National Agricultural Library ([Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare)) provides resources on record-keeping systems for livestock operations. Choose a system that you will use consistently, whether paper forms, spreadsheet templates, or specialized farm management software. ### Financial Records Track all income and expenses by category: - **Income**: Sales receipts by customer and date. - **Feed costs**: Purchase receipts, inventory records, usage per group. - **Veterinary costs**: Invoices, prescription records, treatment logs. - **Labor costs**: Hours worked, wages paid, contractor payments. - **Overhead**: Utilities, insurance, loan payments, depreciation. Reconcile financial records monthly against bank statements and tax records. Accurate financial records are essential for loan applications, tax preparation, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. ### Key Performance Indicators Monitor these metrics monthly: - **Pigs weaned per sow per year**: Target 20 to 24 for well-managed operations. - **Pre-weaning mortality**: Should be below 10 percent. - **Feed conversion ratio**: 2.5 to 3.0 pounds of feed per pound of gain for finishing pigs. - **Average daily gain**: 1.5 to 2.0 pounds per day during finishing phase. - **Cull rate**: Annual sow replacement rate of 30 to 50 percent. Compare your performance to regional averages and adjust management practices when metrics fall outside target ranges. Consistent monitoring allows early detection of problems before they significantly affect profitability. ## Common Failure Patterns ### Underestimating Feed Costs New producers often underestimate feed costs. Feed prices fluctuate with grain markets, and transportation costs add to delivered prices. Build a feed cost buffer of 15 to 20 percent above initial estimates. Secure feed price quotes from multiple suppliers and consider forward contracting a portion of your feed needs to lock in prices. ### Inadequate Biosecurity Disease outbreaks can devastate a herd and halt production for months. A 2025 study ([Identifying control strategies to eliminate African swine fever in the United States swine industry in under 12 months](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40532420)) models control strategies for foreign animal diseases, emphasizing the importance of rapid detection and response. Implement biosecurity protocols from day one, including visitor logs, vehicle disinfection, and isolation of new animals. A 2025 scoping review ([A scoping review of knowledge, attitudes, and practices in swine farm biosecurity in North America](https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1507704)) found that biosecurity practices vary widely among producers, and consistent implementation reduces disease risk. ### Poor Record Keeping Without accurate records, you cannot identify problems early or make informed management decisions. Set up a record-keeping system before acquiring animals and commit to daily data entry. Review records weekly to spot trends in feed consumption, growth rates, or health issues that require attention. ### Cash Flow Mismanagement Pig farming has a lag between expenses (feed, labor) and income (hog sales). The first 6 to 12 months may generate little to no revenue while costs accumulate. Secure adequate operating capital to cover this period. A 2008 study ([Contingency planning: preparation of contingency plans](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18201326)) highlights the need for contingency funds to manage unexpected cash flow disruptions. ### Overexpansion Starting too large increases financial risk. Begin with a manageable number of sows (5 to 10) and expand only after demonstrating consistent profitability and efficient production. Overexpansion strains management capacity, increases debt service, and amplifies the impact of any production or market problems. ## Welfare and Safety Context ### Animal Welfare Standards Provide housing that meets the behavioral and physiological needs of pigs. The Merck Veterinary Manual ([Management and Nutrition](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition)) discusses housing options, space allowances, and environmental enrichment. Key welfare considerations include: - **Space allowance**: Adequate floor space for lying, feeding, and social interaction. - **Environmental enrichment**: Materials such as straw, rubber toys, or rooting substrates to reduce stress and stereotypic behaviors. - **Temperature control**: Pigs are susceptible to heat stress, provide shade, ventilation, and cooling systems in hot weather. - **Humane handling**: Use low-stress handling techniques and avoid electric prods when possible. Poor welfare conditions reduce productivity, increase disease susceptibility, and can lead to regulatory action or market access restrictions. Document your welfare practices and train all workers in proper animal handling. ### Worker Safety Swine operations present several safety hazards: - **Needle-stick injuries**: A 2020 economic analysis ([Economic analysis of new workplace technology including productivity and injury: The case of needle-less injection in swine](https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0233599)) examines needle-less injection systems as a safer alternative to traditional needles. - **[Zoonotic diseases](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/veterinary-pathology-microbiology/zoonotic-diseases-mechanisms-and-veterinary-public-health)**: Some swine diseases can transmit to humans, use personal protective equipment and practice good hygiene. - **Heavy equipment**: Tractors, loaders, and manure handling equipment require training and safety protocols. - **Confined spaces**: Manure pits and storage structures can contain toxic gases, never enter without proper ventilation and safety equipment. Develop written safety protocols for each task on the farm and conduct regular safety training with all workers. Maintain a first aid kit and emergency contact information in a visible location. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Producers have a responsibility to produce safe pork. Follow withdrawal periods for all medications as prescribed by your veterinarian and listed on product labels. Maintain treatment records to verify compliance. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service sets standards for pork safety, familiarize yourself with relevant regulations. Implement a record-keeping system that tracks all medication use by animal or group, including product name, dose, route, date administered, and withdrawal period. ## Professional Escalation Criteria ### When to Contact a Veterinarian Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe: - Sudden increase in mortality (more than 2 percent of a group in 48 hours) - Signs of foreign animal disease (fever, hemorrhages, sudden death) - Unusual neurological signs (tremors, incoordination, paralysis) - Reproductive failure (abortions, stillbirths, weak piglets) - Respiratory distress in multiple animals A 2022 study ([Modelling the role of mortality-based response triggers on the effectiveness of African swine fever control strategies](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34590433)) discusses mortality-based triggers for disease response. Establish clear thresholds with your veterinarian for when to escalate. Document all veterinary consultations and follow treatment protocols precisely. ### When to Contact an Extension Specialist Contact your local agricultural extension office for: - Feed formulation and ration balancing - Facility design and ventilation assessment - Financial analysis and business planning - Nutrient management planning Extension specialists provide research-based information at no or low cost. Build relationships with extension personnel before problems arise so you know who to contact when you need assistance. ### When to Contact Regulatory Authorities Contact state or federal animal health authorities if you suspect a reportable disease. The USDA APHIS ([Swine Disease Information](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine)) provides contact information for state veterinarians and disease reporting protocols. Early reporting is critical for disease control and may be legally required. A historical case study ([The eradication of African swine fever in Brazil, 1978-1984](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16796039)) demonstrates that rapid detection and coordinated response are essential for successful disease eradication. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much does it cost to start a pig farm with 10 sows? Startup costs for a 10-sow farrow-to-finish operation typically range from 40,000 to 90,000 USD, depending on land costs, facility construction, and equipment choices. This estimate includes housing, breeding stock, feed for the first 6 months, veterinary supplies, and operating capital. Obtain local quotes for accurate budgeting. Reduce startup costs by renovating existing buildings, purchasing used equipment, and starting with fewer sows. ### Is pig farming profitable for small-scale producers? Profitability depends on feed costs, market prices, production efficiency, and scale. Small-scale producers can be profitable if they control costs, achieve good reproductive performance (20+ pigs weaned per sow per year), and access niche markets (direct sales, organic, pasture-raised). Complete a break-even analysis before starting to determine if your projected costs and revenues support profitability at expected market prices. ### What are the biggest risks in pig farming? The largest risks include disease outbreaks, feed price volatility, market price fluctuations, and cash flow shortages. Biosecurity planning, feed hedging, diversified marketing, and adequate operating capital help mitigate these risks. The Secure Pork Supply framework ([Description of swine producer biosecurity planning for foreign animal disease preparedness using the Secure Pork Supply framework](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38737457)) provides guidance on disease preparedness. Develop a written risk management plan that addresses each major risk category. ### How long does it take to break even in pig farming? Most new operations require 18 to 36 months to reach break-even, depending on starting scale, efficiency, and market conditions. The first 6 to 12 months typically generate little revenue while costs accumulate. Secure sufficient operating capital to cover this period. Accelerate break-even by starting with weaned pigs instead of breeding stock, which reduces the time to first revenue. ### What records should I keep for my pig farm? Maintain breeding records, farrowing records, weaning records, growth and feed conversion data, health and treatment logs, and financial records (income, expenses, inventory). Accurate records enable performance monitoring, problem identification, and informed management decisions. Choose a record-keeping system you will use consistently and review records at least weekly. ### Do I need a business license to raise pigs? Most jurisdictions require a business license or registration for livestock production. Check with county planning departments for zoning requirements, building permits, and waste management permits. Some states require premises registration for animal disease traceability. Failure to obtain required permits can result in fines or forced closure of the operation. ### How do I market my pigs? Marketing options include selling to local slaughterhouses, auction markets, direct to consumers (freezer pork), or to niche markets (organic, heritage breeds). Develop relationships with buyers before pigs reach market weight. Consider cooperative marketing with other local producers to access larger buyers or reduce transportation costs. ### What insurance do I need for a pig farm? Secure property insurance for buildings and equipment, general liability insurance for public access and animal-related incidents, and livestock mortality insurance if required by lenders. Discuss coverage options with an agricultural insurance agent. Review policy exclusions carefully, particularly for disease-related losses or business interruption. ## Related Farming Guides - [Genetic Flow](/blog/guides/genetic-drift-definition-biology) - [Pig Farming Breeding Farrowing Nursery Grow Finish Nutrition And Biosecurity](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-farming-breeding-farrowing-nursery-grow-finish-nutrition-and-biosecurity) - [Catfish Farming Managing The Production Cycle From Stocking To Harvest](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/catfish-farming-managing-the-production-cycle-from-stocking-to-harvest) - [Manure Management For Pig Farms](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/manure-management-for-pig-farms) - [Swine Genetic Selection And Replacement Planning](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-genetic-selection-and-replacement-planning) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Pig Enrichment Programs and Behavior Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-enrichment-programs-and-behavior-monitoring) * [Swine Handling Facility Design for Safe Pig Movement](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-handling-facility-design-safe-pig-movement) * [Swine Feeding Management for Grow-Finish Pigs](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-feeding-management-for-grow-finish-pigs) ## References and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection) - [www.aphis.usda.gov](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Description of swine producer biosecurity planning for foreign animal disease preparedness using the Secure Pork Supply framework.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38737457). Frontiers in [veterinary science](/blog/news/veterinary-science), 2024. - [Contingency planning: preparation of contingency plans.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18201326). Zoonoses and public health, 2008. - [[The eradication of [African swine fever](/knowledge/bioinformatics/african-swine-fever-computational-models-for-early-detection-and-spread-prediction-in-wild-boar-populations) in Brazil, 1978-1984].](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16796039). Revue scientifique et technique (International Office of Epizootics), 2006. - [Modelling the role of mortality-based response triggers on the effectiveness of African swine fever control strategies.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34590433). Transboundary and emerging diseases, 2022. - [Ferritin and Encapsulin Nanoparticles as Effective Vaccine Delivery Systems: Boosting the Immunogenicity of the African Swine Fever Virus C129R Protein.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40284999). Viruses, 2025. - [Identifying control strategies to eliminate African swine fever in the United States swine industry in under 12 months.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40532420). Preventive [veterinary medicine](/blog/careers/veterinary-medicine-careers-from-clinical-practice-to-public-health), 2025. - [A scoping review of knowledge, attitudes, and practices in swine farm biosecurity in North America](https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1507704). Frontiers in [Veterinary Science](/blog/news/veterinary-science), 2025. - [Economic analysis of new workplace technology including productivity and injury: The case of needle-less injection in swine](https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0233599). Plos One, 2020. - [Water quality in Lis river, Portugal](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-011-2485-9). Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2012. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.