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Cattle vets announce new parasite policy
Parasite control in food-producing animals is full of challenges.
Parasiticide resistance and soil health among the five key areas. 

Plans to prioritise parasite control have been set out under a new policy announced by the British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA).

Parasite control in animals destined for human consumption is full of challenges - and endoparasiticide resistance is a serious threat that could damage the profitability and future health of the sector. 

To help meet these challenges, the BCVA has developed a policy to help vets build the future of parasite control in livestock and support the long-term health of UK cattle. In the document, the BCVA outlines five key policy areas, including:

  1. Parasiticide (Anthelmintic) resistance in cattle and sheep
  2. Sustainability and soil health
  3. Safety & efficacy of parasiticides/anthelmintics and public perception
  4. Education and development of a new ethos
  5. Method of supply of parasiticides.

The policy sits alongside BCVA’s new sustainability statement and existing TB policy, with a focus on the role of the private farm vet and related industries. 

Sally Wilson, who led the development of the policy alongside the BCVA Board, said: “We know that we need to encourage a shift from routine treatments to a diagnostic-led approach. BCVA is committed to contributing towards this shift. 

“Our profession needs to be able to clearly demonstrate how clinicians balance the goal of preserving the effectiveness of parasiticides/anthelmintics with their health and welfare obligations to the animals under their care.” 

BCVA president, Dr Elizabeth Berry added: “Training by the veterinary profession on medicine use with their clients has achieved considerable success recently, in both reducing and appropriate use of antimicrobials -around with initiatives like Farm Vet Champions taking this forward. 

“Developing and extending this relationship with farm clients can lead to a similar focus on the use of parasiticides and we all need to be part of a change in attitude in use of parasiticides and consider animal health and our environment. We can be part of the solution. 
 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.