An unidentified cattle herd in Saskatchewan was quarantined in November after a six-year-old cow sent to slaughter in Alberta tested positive for bovine tuberculosis.

Three positive cases were found in the subsequent investigation—but all were born outside of the current herd. The CFIA says animals in the initial herd will be euthanized to prevent disease spread with the owner receiving compensation. There will be also tracebacks to other herds connected with the three positives cases.

Dr. Stephanie Smith is Saskatchewan’s Chief Veterinary Officer. She is not involved in the bovine TB investigation, but receives updates from the CFIA.

Bovine TB is a slow progressing disease and that is one of the challenges in doing an extensive traceback. Dr. Smith says it will likely be a lengthy investigation.

This is Saskatchewan’s second recent brush with bovine TB. A 2023 investigation found three positive cases.
The CFIA says this strain of bovine TB is unknown and not related to any recent strains in Western Canada.

Dr. Smith says her office is working with provincial cattle organization and has prepared a list of resources for producers who may become involved in a traceback investigation. Some of it covers mental health resources because these situations are very stressful. The CFIA has been given this information and will provide it to the producers it contacts.