Farming welfare improvements praised
The Chairman of the Cattle Health and Welfare Group (CHAWG) Mr Tim Brigstocke has told a meeting of the British Cattle Veterinary Association that Britain's farmers have responded 'positively' to initiatives designed to improve the health and welfare of the nation's cattle.
“In 2011, 71 per cent of livestock farmers had a farm health plan and around 76 per cent were completed with the help of a vet or adviser.” said Mr Brigstocke, who also told those present that a DEFRA study showed 41% of farmers with a farm health plan routinely use them to make informed decisions on disease management.
Mr Brigstocke also expressed the hope that the CHAWG could play a major role in helping the farming industry take responsibility for health and welfare, adding that “Hopefully CHAWG, as an industry group, can steer this endeavour by providing a sounding board and delivering facts to the whole supply chain.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
