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Boost for livestock health research

UK projects receive funding of £4 million

Seven research projects have received a total of £4 million funding to help improve the health of farmed animals in the UK.

The funded projects include work to tackle costly livestock diseases, create new vaccines, examine immune system reactions and breed healthier animals.

Funding has been awarded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council's (BBSRC) Animal Health Research Club (ARC).

These grants represent the first of two rounds of funding from the ARC, which is to offer £9.5 million in total to UK research projects.


The first funded projects will take place over the next three years at a range of key institutions in the UK, including the Roslin Institute, the Royal Veterinary College, Scotland's Rural College and the Pirbright Institute.


One of the seven studies looks to identify proteins which scientists believe may protect against avian influenza, while another aims to develop genomic predictors of bovine TB infection, which could be used to breed resistant cattle.


Dr Celia Caulcott, director at BBSRC, says: "Livestock diseases cost UK farmers and the wider economy millions of pounds a year, pose welfare problems for farmed animals and negatively affect food security.

"By funding studies that take a broad look at some of the most prevalent and costly livestock diseases, the Animal Health Research Club will be able to deliver results to benefit farmers, animals and consumers."


Applications for the round of ARC funding will open on October 18, 2013, closing on December 11.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.