Pig Veterinary Society reminds vets of new Brexit requirements
The EU Animal Health Regulations apply to farms which export to the EU.
The Pig Veterinary Society (PVS) has issued a reminder to veterinary surgeons of post-Brexit requirements affecting non-assured producers from December.
From 13 December 2023, UK producers that send livestock to market or slaughter must demonstrate that they have had a veterinary visit in the past 12 months.
A temporary measure previously allowed farmers to self-declare however, from December, they will need to provide a declaration from their veterinary surgeon.
The EU Animal Health Regulations apply to farms which produce animals or products of animal origin for export to the EU.
As at least some portion of most carcasses is exported, most livestock businesses will be subject to these regulations.
Dr Lysan Eppink, PVS president, said: “If the farm is a member of a recognised assurance scheme (currently Red Tractor, Welsh Beef and Lamb Producers, and Quality Meat Scotland), no separate certification is needed. A visit that has taken place as part of the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway for England can also be used to demonstrate compliance.
“Everybody else sending animals to market or slaughter must get a veterinary declaration to demonstrate that the animals have been under veterinary care (at least one visit in the last 12 months) otherwise the animals will likely not be accepted by the market or abattoir.”
The template veterinary declaration for the use of veterinary surgeons completing animal health visits is available here.
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. 
