New Pilot Scheme to Speed up Removal of TB Reactor Cattle
During June 2010, livestock owners in these areas will no longer have to wait for Animal Health to visit their holding to find out how much compensation they will be paid for their TB reactor cattle. Instead, their local Animal Health office will provide them with compensation information over the phone.
This procedural change could help livestock owners to save time - through no longer having to host an Animal Health visit - and the costs associated with delayed removal of TB reactor cattle.
The pilot will also look at the potential cost savings that can be realised by reducing the number of farm visits undertaken by Animal Health.
Andy Foxcroft, Animal Health’s Field Services Director for England, said: “We will be seeking feedback on the scheme from all the livestock owners, partners and stakeholders involved.
“If the feedback is positive and the project creates benefits for both livestock keepers and Animal Health, there is a good chance the changes will be adopted permanently and introduced to our offices in the rest of England.”
The pilot scheme, which began on 2 June (7 June in the West Midlands) and runs until 30 June, will involve Animal Health offices in Exeter, Gloucester, and the West Midlands.
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. 
