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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 9th February 2023
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Health and welfare reviews rolled out for livestock farms
The review is an opportunity to improve livestock's health and welfare.
The funded visits will allow vets to support the work of farmers.

Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) annual health and welfare reviews are now open to all eligible farmers in England. The launch is the first step on Defra’s new Animal Health and Welfare Pathway.

Farms taking part in the scheme will receive a funded annual visit by either a veterinary surgeon or a veterinary team. Participation is optional and it is up to the farmer to choose a veterinary practice and arrange a review. 

The visits are designed to be flexible to meet the different needs of different farms, with the aim of reducing endemic diseases, improving animal welfare, increasing animal productivity, and ensuring that veterinary medicines and vaccines are being used appropriately. 

While on the farm, the veterinary surgeon or team will test for conditions such as bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD), porcine reproductive and respiratory disease (PRRS) and worms in sheep. It will also be a chance to discuss relevant issues with the client and provide bespoke advice on the health and welfare of the livestock.

To receive a funded review, a farm must have either 11 or more cattle (beef or dairy), 21 or more sheep, or 51 or more pigs and be eligible for the Basic Payment Scheme. They do not need to have an SFI standards agreement.

In response to the launch, BCVA president Colin Mason said: “We are encouraged to see the start of these animal health and welfare review visits, which offer broad opportunities for vets and their farm clients to discuss the health and welfare of their animals. This review stage is just the start of the development of the scheme, and it’s important that cattle vets are involved as the programme expands.

“It’s important to note that the scheme recognises that one size doesn’t fit all, so it’s an opportunity to tailor your visit to suit your client, to develop your relationship and expand your services to them.”

The Government has released online guidance for veterinary professionals on how to carry out a review.

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.