Belchertown Animal Inspector Sharon Kahl-Oey is conducting 2025 annual livestock inspections and reminds all owners of farm animals, including backyard chickens, to schedule a visit before the April 1, 2026 deadline. Inspections are required by Massachusetts state law (MGL Chapter 129) to ensure animal health and welfare, and are critical for emergency preparedness and disease outbreak response. The 10-30 minute inspection is free.
To schedule an inspection, contact Animal Inspector Sharon Kahl-Oey at 413-687-2814. For more information on what to expect, visit the town’s news flash.















