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BPEX launch new disease charter
Pigs in hay
"The early detection and reporting of these potentially costly diseases would enable rapid response measures to be put in place."
Launched in face of threat of PEDv

A new significant diseases charter has been launched by BPEX in response to threats from challenges such as Porcine Epidemic Diarrhoea (PEDv).

Produced as part of the contingency plan drawn up by the Pig Health and Welfare Council, the charter aims for producers to sign up to share information quickly in the event of an outbreak. In turn, this will make controlling the disease quicker and more effective.

"The success of the charter relies totally on the the voluntary commitment from producers and their vets to raise the alarm should they experience a disease breakdown," said BPEX veterinary team manager Martin Smith.

"The early detection and reporting of these potentially costly diseases would enable rapid response measures to be put in place to restrict their spread for the benefit of the whole of the British pig industry," he added.

To make the charter work, producers will be encouraged to sign up online. It will be co-ordinated by the Control Centre set up within BPEX using existing staff resources.

Farm vets have responsibility for reporting suspect PED or confirmed Swine Dysentery to the Control Centre, but they can only do this if they and the producer are signed up via Pig Hub as a charter member.

BPEX say that early access to this essential information will enable:

  • Voluntary movement restrictions to be put in place immediately
  • Expert industry assistance in containing, controlling and eliminating the infection
  • The risk of spread to be greatly reduced
  • Movement tracings and further testing to be implemented immediately
  • Local and national reducers to increase their biosecurity measures
  • Local and national produces to be extra vigilant looking for signs in their own stock

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.