What diagnostic service does CAHFS provide to owners of backyard flocks in California?

The California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS) offers essential services to support the health management of poultry, particularly for owners of backyard flocks. One of the key services provided is a full diagnostic workup on up to two chickens for a fee. This service is vital for detecting diseases, understanding the health status of the birds, and offering solutions to poultry owners who may be concerned about the well-being of their chickens.

Offering a full diagnostic workup allows for a thorough evaluation of the birds, which may include testing for avian diseases, providing necessary insights that can help in maintaining healthy flocks. This approach supports both individual flock owners and the broader poultry industry by helping to identify and manage potential disease outbreaks.

In contrast, while free health checks may seem beneficial, CAHFS does not provide this service for any number of birds, nor do they focus on emergency disease treatment or registration for poultry events in their primary diagnostic offerings. Instead, their structured approach emphasizes diagnosis and health management through specific, targeted testing services.