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AHVLA issue report on Ramsgate
Procedures altered to prevent repeat incident

After a consignment of 540 sheep were unloaded at the Port of Ramsgate last year, resulting in three sheep drowning and over forty having to be euthanised, farming minister David Heath asked the AHVLA to review its procedures.

The agency was asked to look at its operational procedures and the application of EU welfare rules during livestock transport, to ensure every effort was made to prevent such an incident in the future.

Aspects investigated included the overall handling of the incident, procedures for managing inspections at Ramsgate and how the agency worked alongside other bodies present at the port during inspection. The agency were also requested to look into the contingency arrangements required by the transporter and any additional arrangements that may be needed by the agency as the regulator.

As a result of its review, the AHVLA has issued a report detailing the enhancements to its existing operational practice. According to the report, every consignment passing through Ramsgate will now be inspected, and tougher enforcement of welfare procedures will be employed. The AHVLA plans to implement its own contingency plans in the event of an emergency, should the transporter be unwilling or unable to implement their own plans within two hours.

Procedures will reportedly be improved to ensure an agency vet is within an hour of the port at all times, to assist inspectors should a welfare concern or emergency arise. The AHVLA also plan to work with the operator of the transport vessel in order to develop new contingency measures in the event of an emergency.

Further, the changes that a transporter can make to the journey log of the delivery proper to the export will be restricted. It is felt by the agency this will help to maintain clear records of the animals during the journey.

Click here for the full report.

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 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.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.