New dangers as flood waters recede
Animals face threats from sewage and chemicals, BVA warns
As flood waters across the country begin to recede, the BVA is warning pet owners and farmers to remain vigilant to potential health threats.
Flooding has caused devastation to homes and land in many areas across the country, resulting in hundreds of animals in need of rescue.
While the water is beginning to subside, the BVA has cautioned animal owners that water may have become contaminated by sewage, chemicals and other waste, posing health risks to their animals.
BVA president Robin Hargreaves said: "Pet owners should try to keep their animals from drinking contaminated water, as effluent and bacteria can be very harmful.
"It is also worth checking with your vet that you are up-to-date with all vaccinations. This will give your pet the best possible protection against diseases, such as leptospirosis, which can be spread through stagnant water."
Mr Hargreaves also urged farmers to consider the risks posed to their livestock by contaminated drinking water and feed.
He said: "Both silage and forage may have been contaminated by chemicals or waste and should not be fed to animals if they show signs of spoilage or mould.
"If alternative water or feed is not available it may be best to consider selling animals and reinvesting when conditions improve."
Animal owners in affected areas are urged to speak to their vet about concerns or their environmental health team about local levels of contamination.
As flood waters across the country begin to recede, the BVA is warning pet owners and farmers to remain vigilant to potential health threats.
Flooding has caused devastation to homes and land in many areas across the country, resulting in hundreds of animals in need of rescue.
While the water is beginning to subside, the BVA has cautioned animal owners that water may have become contaminated by sewage, chemicals and other waste, posing health risks to their animals.
BVA president Robin Hargreaves said: "Pet owners should try to keep their animals from drinking contaminated water, as effluent and bacteria can be very harmful.
"It is also worth checking with your vet that you are up-to-date with all vaccinations. This will give your pet the best possible protection against diseases, such as leptospirosis, which can be spread through stagnant water."
Mr Hargreaves also urged farmers to consider the risks posed to their livestock by contaminated drinking water and feed.
He said: "Both silage and forage may have been contaminated by chemicals or waste and should not be fed to animals if they show signs of spoilage or mould.
"If alternative water or feed is not available it may be best to consider selling animals and reinvesting when conditions improve."
Animal owners in affected areas are urged to speak to their vet about concerns or their environmental health team about local levels of contamination.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
