Animal Health

Did you know that the lifecycle of a fly is dependent on temperature, and farms offer the ideal five-star accommodation for breeding flies?

A sudden increase in temperatures and continued localised rain mean farmers must be vigilant for fly issues in sheep and take steps to prevent significant production losses from occurring, Zoetis experts warn. 

After a spell of warm weather, farmers are reminded that waiting to treat flystrike rather than preventing it can result in up to 16% of lambs struck, with some flocks experiencing mortality rates of 7.5% among struck animals. 

The return of the British Pig and Poultry Fair brought a lively and enthusiastic cohort of exhibitors, farmers, breeders and innovators together. Sarah Juggins reports.

After a record-breaking wet winter and spring, mineral levels in grass could be reduced, putting livestock at risk of deficiencies. Sarah Kidby reports.

Broiler producers are being urged to focus on heat stress in birds as temperatures increase to avoid the costly impacts on bird health, welfare and performance. 

Further changes to TB testing in Wales have just been announced. 

As daytime temperatures across England are set to reach 30ᐤC this week and yellow heat alerts are put in place, RSPCA Assured is offering farmers tips on how to keep their animals cool in the heat. 

In a straw poll conducted at ScotSheep 2024, 80% of farmers considered thin ewes to be a problem in their flock, 86% had heard of Ovine Johne’s Disease (OJD), however, only 49% had received advice from their vet, and 54% were considering testing. 

Bluetongue virus (BTV) transmission is now possible in high-risk counties across England due to recent warm weather, an expert warns.

The Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (Wales) Order 2024 will be introduced on 1st July.

Representatives of four UK farming unions agreed that there are real potential benefits of introducing bovine Electronic Identification (bEID), from efficiency and animal health and welfare gains to improving the health and safety of livestock handlers.