‘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
Beef x Dairy cattle with strong genetics and documentation are earning prices comparable to native feeders.
Roger McEowen explains the concept of “lawfare” — the use of legal systems to intimidate or financially exhaust an opponent — which grew into a central theme of U.S. ag law in 2025.
FarmHER Chris Nellis and her daughters navigate loss while carrying on a 300-year farm legacy, milking cows in upstate New York.
Justin Wheeler with the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers joined us with insight into current farmland values and what to watch in the year ahead.
Tennessee 4-H members Jayden Hesson and Matthew Rochford joined us to discuss how 4-H is helping young leaders plan for the future of agriculture.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition shares how extreme winter weather is affecting the ag transportation network and what producers should keep in mind as conditions slowly improve.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
Expanded school access to whole milk provides modest but reliable demand support for U.S. dairy producers.
StockShowAuctions.com takes us to the Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas, where young producers are showcasing their dedication, skill, and champion livestock.
Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share practical health and safety guidance for managing respiratory and skin health during the winter season.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
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.