'Innovative new approaches' to TB urged
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has urged the farming sector to develop 'innovative new approaches' to the control of bovine tuberculosis in light of the need to make financial savings in the current economic climate.
DEFRA is hoping to cut its animal health budget to £199million by 2014/15 as compared to expenditure of £244million in 2011/12. As TB-related spending accounts for an annual expenditure of £100million at present, savings in this area would greatly assist in achieving this reduction.
Commenting, Animal Health and Welfare Board for England (AHWBE) Chairman Michael Seals said “We are open to new ways of working. We are looking for industry to come forward with their ideas. For example, do we have to have a hugely bureaucratic system of controls and decision-making processes, when some aspects could easily be handled by the farmer. It is far easier for a farmer to organise the removal of animals from his farm than some central organisation.”
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.
