The common animal health policy follows the motto “prevention is better than cure” (European Union Animal Health Strategy 2007-2013).
The primary goal is therefore also in Baden-Württemberg to avoid the disease of animals as much as possible through preventive measures such as vaccinations and compliance with biosecurity measures. However, the occurrence of an animal disease cannot always be avoided, so that in a positive case, action must be taken as quickly and effectively as possible to prevent it from spreading. Because animal diseases such as the highly contagious swine fever, foot-and-mouth disease or avian influenza (bird flu) can lead to significant animal losses and considerable economic losses. A consistent approach is also required in the case of zoonoses (e.g. salmonellosis), because here both the animal and the human health are at risk.
In order to recognize the occurrence of a disease as quickly as possible, the pet owner is obliged to report any abnormalities. In addition, laboratory diagnostic tests are carried out regularly.
These laboratory tests are carried out at the chemical and veterinary testing offices in Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Freiburg and at the state veterinary testing office in Aulendorf.
On the following pages you will find some further information on selected animal diseases.
