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Charity forced to let 12,000 hens go to slaughter
hens
“We are best known for saving the lives of thousands of hens intended for slaughter so this is a difficult time for us". (stock photo)
Avian flu threat prevents planned hen collections
 
The British Hen Welfare Trust is currently on ‘lockdown’ and has been forced to let 12,000 hens go to slaughter amid concerns about avian influenza in the UK.

The hens were due to be collected by the charity for rehoming in December, January and February but UK restrictions to prevent the spread of avian influenza meant the birds had to go to slaughter.

A prevention zone in place until 28 February requires poultry and other captive birds to be housed indoors or otherwise separated from wild birds. Gatherings of birds are also temporarily prohibited. The measures were put in place following outbreaks of avian influenza H5N8 in Europe.

Outbreaks have also been confirmed on a Lincolnshire turkey farm in December and in backyard flocks in Wales and Yorkshire, as well as in wild birds in England, Scotland and Wales.

The British Hen Welfare Trust finds retirement homes for caged hens destined for slaughter. Its founder, Jane Howorth MBE, commented: “We are best known for saving the lives of thousands of hens intended for slaughter so this is a difficult time for us.

“However, we take pride in acting responsibly and agree that Defra’s decision to extend the prevention zone to help protect national backyard and commercial poultry was the right one.

“Everything we do as a charity revolves around hen welfare so we are greatly saddened that 12,000 hens didn’t get their chance to enjoy a free range retirement, but we are looking forward to March when we hope that thousands will be able to enjoy the spring sunshine for the first time.”

The charity is reminding hen keepers that the latest outbreak of avian flu was in a backyard flock, and that it is currently a legal requirement to house birds indoors.

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.