Animal Health Division

Arkansas is a national leader in livestock production, ranking among the top states for chicken, eggs, turkey, beef, and pork. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture plays a vital role in supporting this success by protecting animal health, promoting animal welfare, and ensuring a safe and healthy livestock industry across the state.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Division works to protect both animal and human health by preventing, controlling, and responding to zoonotic and other communicable animal diseases that pose a risk to Arkansas’s livestock, poultry, and food supply.

The division is organized into three key components that work collaboratively to safeguard the state’s animal industries:

  • Animal Health
  • Food Safety
  • Regulatory Compliance

Each component includes multiple sections that contribute to the division’s mission of protecting animal agriculture and public health across the state.

Contact Us

Division Director
Patrick Fisk, (501) 249-3369

State Veterinarian
Andrew Fidler, (501) 297-2250

Field Services Division Manager
Blake Walters, (501) 519-0725

Poultry and Egg Division Manager
Cheri Ellis, (501) 823-1745

Programs and Services

Cattle

Upcoming Events

  • Arkansas Catfish Promotion Board 1.22.26

    Embassy Suites, 400 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs, AR 400 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs, United States
    Hybrid Event

    The Arkansas Catfish Promotion Board will meet on Tuesday, January 22, 2026, 1:00 p.m. at the Embassy Suites, 400 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs, AR. 2026 - 01-22-26 Catfish Promotion Board […]

Public Notices

Due to recent outbreaks of Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) reported in Oklahoma and Texas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture recommends that all equine events, including shows, competitions, and large gatherings, be […]
  • Animal Health Division