Develop a standard operating procedure for dealing with broken needles in cattle:
- If the needle remains in the animal, mark the location where the needle was inserted.
- If a broken needle cannot be removed at the ranch, contact a veterinarian immediately to have the needle surgically removed.
- If a broken needle cannot be extracted from the tissue, record the animal’s ID and make sure that animal is never sold or leaves the ranch, and does not enter the food chain.
Are you a certified Beef Quality Assurance producer? If you’re not, the training is free and available online and in person at select meetings across the state. Visit www.texasbeefquality.com for more information.