‘Know Before You Show': Tennessee State Veterinarian Shares Biosecurity Tips for Livestock Shows

Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Batey joined us with the latest on biosecurity efforts and the state’s new “Know Before You Show” initiative.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Biosecurity remains a top priority for the livestock industry, especially as animals travel to shows, fairs, and expos across the country. To help prevent the introduction and spread of animal diseases, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture is working to ensure show managers and participants are prepared ahead of livestock shows.

Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Batey joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the department’s new campaign, “Know Before You Show.”

In her interview with RFD NEWS, Batey emphasized the importance of biosecurity and staying proactive in protecting animal health before, during, and after livestock exhibitions. She also outlined what families and exhibitors need to consider before bringing animals to events, as well as steps participants can take to keep animals healthy while they are already on site. She also explained what actions to take if an animal appears sick or may be contagious.

Batey also discussed the recent extreme winter weather in Tennessee and the key steps producers can take to help protect livestock health during challenging conditions. Batey shared how viewers can learn more about the “Know Before You Show” campaign and the resources available through the state.

Related Stories
Farmer Bridge Assistance payments provide immediate balance-sheet support heading into 2026, but remain a short-term bridge rather than a substitute for long-term market recovery.
The New Year is here, but in Oregon, some ranchers and livestock producers are still trying to recover from record wildfires back in 2024.
As markets anticipate a return to normal trading following the New Year’s holiday, the possibility of the southern border re-opening to cattle is capturing much attention.
Expanding cheese exports are strengthening U.S. milk demand and reinforcing global competitiveness.
U.S. dairy producers remain the primary growth engine globally, while tightening supplies in Europe and New Zealand could support export demand for American dairy products.
Rising production underscores the importance of marketing discipline and margin protection as milk supplies expand.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

USTR Jamieson Greer signals a narrower trade deal with China, adding more market uncertainty. The Farm Bureau also supports reviewing China’s missed trade commitments under the Phase One.
Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.
Raulston Acres Christmas Tree Farm in Rock Springs, Ga., has been in the same family for three generations.
Reed Marcum started hosting a toy drive in 2015. Since then, he has distributed thousands of toys across his home state of Oklahoma and in Texas and Arkansas. Now serving in the Army, Reed’s family and local 4-H chapter are running the event.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.