The first step in the bio security protocol will be to start with clean stock, procure new stock from reputable farmers. Buy snails that are clean,without cracks,nodules and pungent smell.
The snails must be active and the foot must fill the shell. The new stock must be cleaned with water and cloth before introduction to house,snails of various ages from various stock should not be mixed and Snails from old batch must not be mixed with new stock.
The housing depending on the type require cleaning and wiping/raking and turning of the soil. The fittings of the house must be clean,doors,panels must be solid to prevent ant infestation.The housing must be fitted with wire netting and nets to prevent entry of pests,this must also be cleaned, and checked for any damage.
The sand in the snailery must be clean and insect free, the sand must be moistened with water to prevent drying out of the snails.The sand must be raked and turned to remove slime, food remnants and feces.
The surrounding of the house must be kept clean,regular washing of the drains and disinfecting of drains are important,the drains can also be lined with oil to prevent solider ants from entering the house. Rat baits are animal traps should be scattered around the compound to prevent access to rodents and other wild animals.
The feed and water must be stored properly to prevent contamination with feces or dirt..The water tanks and pipes must be cleaned and the water source sanitized .Clean water must be available to the snails at all times. Feed must be stored in air tight areas, and also prevent water from soaking the feed to prevent molds growing on the feed .
Feeding snails: if you want to give fresh vegetables,they must be clean and well chopped to allow the snails consume them easily and the remnant feed must be removed from the snailery. The snails must be examined at regular intervals, and any snail showing signs of illness must be removed from the house. Dead/sick snails must be removed from the house immediately.
Visitors to the snailery must be restricted, the visitors can view the snails from side bars without entering, in case of walk-in type full protective clothing must be put on with clean boots. Handling of snails by everyone must be discouraged, as rough handling may predispose to shell damage and possible death due to contamination.
The snailery must never have feed/ food with salt ,also use of soap inside the snailery is prohibited.
