Animal Handling Challenge

Below is a series of questions in regards to animal handling.  Take the quiz and see how you do.

  1. Animals may signal their intention to kick or bite by: (select all that apply)
  • Pinning their ears back
  • Raise their tail
  • Flare their nostrils
  • No warning given at all
  • Bared teeth
  • Raised hair on their back
  1. What is the flight zone for most animals? (select best answer)
  • Minimum acceptable distance between the animal and any perceived threat (comfort zone)
  • Distance from the animal to their shelter
  • Area required around a bird in order to take flight.
  1. Zoonotic diseases are: (Select best answer)
  • Diseases that animals housed in zoos may contract.
  • Illnesses/diseases that affect humans, and that can be transmitted between humans and animals.
  • Diseases contracted by animals that live near the sea.
  1. What is Biosecurity? Select the best answer
  • Management practices to prevent movement of disease causing agents onto and off of the farm
  • Excellent composting practices employed on the farm
  • Watering system used for animals housed in a barn
  • Equipment used for shearing sheep
  1. Domesticated animals learn from their environment and their experiences with people and will draw upon past experience when reacting to a situation.          ____________ TRUE  ___________FALSE
  1. What are some general safe handling techniques to use with animals? Select all that apply
  • Yell and whistle to get the animal’s attention
  • Make yourself visible to the animal so you don’t alarm them
  • Stay calm and move slowly
  • Prod the animal and force them into a corner
  • Avoid loud noises and yelling
  • Keep the surface consistent when moving animals
  1. When working with an animal in a confined area it is important to: (Select the best answer)
  • Plan your escape route from the area
  • Wear running shoes for a fast get-away
  • Bring your lunch to the working area
  • Have your phone available for photo opportunities
  1. Possible sources of animal disease transmission include (Select all that apply)
  • Contaminated feed, water, bedding or soil
  • Contaminated farm equipment and vehicles moved from farm to farm
  • Introduction of new animals to the herd/flock
  • Airborne disease-causing agents or fecal matter

If any of the questions stumped you or you want to learn more, go to the Farm Safety Nova Scotia Website and take the free Online Animal Handling Course.  The course focuses on five specific animal species to include cattle, swine, sheep, avian and fur and their behaviour, safe handling, zoonotic disease, biosecurity protocols and PPE.  The course generates a certificate once the course and wrap up quiz are complete.