We would like to wish all our farm clients and their staff a happy Christmas and prosperous new year.
Our sentiments last Christmas were that things could only get better. This year after F&M on top of everything else surely the livestock sector is due for an upturn in its fortunes.
Despite all the criticisms, many of them justified, there is optimism that the measures taken have successfully brought the F&M epidemic under control. Restrictions are being slowly relaxed, allowing a gradual return to normal.
Movement licenses.
Sole occupancy licenses are still needed for movements around your own holdings. Spot checks were threatened, although we are not aware of any yet, you should keep up with the conditions of the licence just in case.
AMLs will continue to be issued by trading standards. We are told that vet inspections for pig and cattle movements will not be required from early December.
Animals intended for meat export need special licenses. We have to be present at loading, and have to seal the vehicle. The farmer has to pay for the inspection. Currently the price premium makes the extra hassle well worth while.
TB testing. Defra have told us that routine herd testing will be starting within the next month. There is obviously a large backlog. Those herds most overdue will be at the top of the list. We will try and fit in as many as possible before spring turnout. We have not been told about brucellosis testing yet.
Anthrax tests. Any sudden unexplained death should be tested. Obviously the current media coverage has raised the profile. On a couple of occasions the intervention board have requested a test when you are unable to give a cause of death when reporting a dead animal for collection. All tests have to be authorised by Elmbridge Court. Contact us if you are not sure what to do.
Cepravin Dry Cow is now available again following a manufacturing problem. We are sorry for the interruption in supply.
Enviracor vaccine for E. coli mastitis is now also available again and is well worth considering if you experience E. coli mastitis cases. We hope to have a farmers meeting on this in the new year.
Web site. For those with access to the internet you may like to visit us at www.rowevetgroup.com.
