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Low-level herd diseases in pigs to be identified at slaughter
12 different health conditions will be tested for as part of the scheme.
New scheme will allow pig farmers access to post-mortem data

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) are inviting pig farmers to join a new scheme that will provide access to post-mortem data on their pig herd at slaughter.

The aim of the scheme is to provide information on low-level diseases that the farmer may not be aware of. Through this close observation, it is hoped that health and welfare will improve and performance increased.

12 different health conditions affecting the heart, liver, skin and lungs (including enzootic pneumonia and pleuritis) will be tested for by a veterinary assessor at the time of slaughter. A full report will then be provided that can instigate discussion and health plans with a veterinary surgeon.

Results from the report can be useful in assessing any recent changes to feed, conditions or vaccination programmes.

This new scheme is a replacement for the British Pig Health Scheme (BPHS) that was halted in October 2017 so that AHDB could partner with abattoirs and veterinary surgeons to produce an improved process.

Commenting on the scheme, Lauren Turner, Pork Processing Projects Manager said: “The Pig Health Scheme will allow you to get information on diseases that you may not be aware of, and may help to reduce those unexplained falls in performance that seem to have no cause but gradually lose you money over time by reducing growth rates.”

The scheme is free to join and more information can be found here.

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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.