Instructions
Watch for signs of hoof and mouth disease. As the disease is highly contagious, stopping the spread of the disease is very important in saving any local animals. Typically, blister-like lesions develop on the mouth and hooves of the animal.
Contact federal or state authorities if you suspect that an animal may have hoof and mouth disease. Laboratory diagnosis may be necessary for a positive identification.
Follow the guidelines for handling hoof and mouth disease in your country. In the United States, the current policy is that all animals with hoof and mouth disease as well as those who have been exposed are to be killed. The carcasses of the animals are then supposed to be burned or buried in order to help prevent further contamination.
Disinfect and clean the area where the diseased animals were after the appropriate waiting period. In some cases, a small population of susceptible animals is first placed in the area to see whether it's still contaminated.
Vaccinate susceptible animals to help prevent hoof and mouth disease. Although vaccination won't get rid of hoof and mouth disease altogether, it can keep the number of cases to a minimum in countries where outbreaks are still common.
How to Treat Hoof and Mouth Disease
Hoof and mouth disease, also known as foot and mouth disease, is a viral disease that affects cattle and pigs. The disease is highly contagious and can be fatal to the animals that contract it. Humans are rarely infected, but other animals like goats, sheep, bison and deer can catch the disease. There is no known treatment for animals that contract the disease.