Who must conduct the blood test for equine infectious anemia?

The blood test for equine infectious anemia (EIA) must be conducted by an accredited veterinarian because they have received specialized training and certification from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to perform this specific test. This credentialing ensures that the veterinarian understands the disease, the implications of a positive result, and the proper procedures for testing and reporting.

Accredited veterinarians are specifically recognized for their ability to handle and test for communicable diseases in animals, ensuring the integrity of the testing process and the health of the equine population. This standard helps to maintain biosecurity and monitor disease outbreaks effectively.

Other options, while related to animal care and health, lack the required accreditation. USDA employees are involved in policy and regulation but do not typically conduct testing. Licensed farriers focus on hoof care and are not trained or authorized to perform medical tests. While any veterinarian may provide general care for horses, only those who are accredited can handle EIA testing due to the legal and public health importance of the disease. This ensures that the testing is handled by a professional who is fully equipped to manage the responsibilities that come with it.