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Northern Ireland bird keepers urged to prepare for avian flu
“Make improvements where possible to reduce the risk of transmission of disease to your flocks” – Brian Dooher.
Chief vet highlights importance of good biosecurity.

Bird keepers in Northern Ireland have been urged to prepare for the increased threat of avian influenza this winter.

The appeal, made by Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), comes after highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N5 was detected in commercial poultry at a premises in England.

The case, confirmed on 5 November by the UK chief veterinary officer, was the first case of avian influenza found in Great Britain since February.

According to the most recent Veterinary Risk Assessment for Northern Ireland, while the risk level of avian influenza for poultry flocks with suboptimal biosecurity is moderate, the risk level where biosecurity standards are high is low.

In response, DAERA is urging all bird keepers to follow high standards of biosecurity.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland’s chief veterinary officer, said: “Given the positive wild bird findings at various locations across Great Britain over recent weeks, the start of winter migration, and now the first confirmed case of HPAI H5N5 in poultry in England this season, consistently high standards of biosecurity are essential.

“I encourage all owners of poultry, game or pet birds, whether you keep one bird or hundreds, to act now and carefully consider your biosecurity protection. Make improvements where possible to reduce the risk of transmission of disease to your flocks.

“If avian flu were to enter any flock, including backyard or hobby flocks, it would have a devastating effect on the poultry industry and would significantly impact international trade.”

Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in Northern Ireland. Anyone who suspects a case must report it to their local Divisional Veterinary Office.

Image © Shutterstock

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."