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Government to consult on bird keeper registration rules
Rules would apply to keepers of birds of prey and pigeons, but not to parrots or budgies housed entirely indoors.
The proposal would require all keepers to register their birds.

As part of government measures to combat avian influenza, Defra has launched a consultation on new registration rules for all bird keepers in Great Britain.

The proposed rules would require all poultry keepers to register their birds, regardless of how many they have. Currently, only those who keep 50 or more are legally required to register their birds.

The rules would apply to keepers of backyard flocks, birds of prey and pigeons, but not parrots or budgies housed entirely indoors.

Registered information would need to be to be updated on an annual basis.

Registration with APHA will ensure that keepers receive important updates regarding local avian influenza outbreaks, and information on biosecurity rules. It will also allow the government to quickly communicate measures to help manage and limit the spread of disease.

In a joint statement the Chief Veterinary Officers from England, Scotland and Wales said: “These proposals will enable us to have a full picture of the number and location of birds kept across Great Britain and make it easier to track and manage the spread of avian disease.

“This information will also help inform future risk assessments and maintain our commitment to continually building our extensive avian influenza research portfolio.”

Richard Griffiths, British Poultry Council chief executive said: “We welcome this consultation as a means of ensuring the GB poultry register is fit to support Government and industry efforts in mitigating the ongoing impacts of avian influenza.

“Registering your poultry is an effective way of monitoring and controlling the spread of disease to protect the national flock.

“We, as ever, urge all poultry keepers to remain vigilant for signs of avian influenza in their birds.”

The GB-wide consultation is open until 31 May.

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.