Veterinary surveillance blogs

On the Hoof - In the run up to lambing

Now is the time to arrange visits to check the energy and protein status of ewes lambing in March. …

SRUC Veterinary Services
18/02/2025

Schmallenberg virus and abortion sampling

We have recently confirmed abortion and or the birth of deformed lambs in several early lambing flocks due to Schmallenberg virus (SBV). SBV infection has been confirmed in flocks across the southern half of Scotland, including Dumfries & Galloway and Stirlingshire.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
31/01/2025

Scotland-wide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) covering the whole of Scotland was declared this past weekend. From 12pm on Saturday 25 January 2025, strict biosecurity measures for all bird keepers must be adhered to, to help prevent the spread of “bird flu” from wild birds or any other source.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
29/01/2025

Schmallenberg update for SW Scotland

2023 saw evidence of significant spread of Schmallenberg through large areas of England and Wales with resultant impact on flock and herd fertility and the birth of deformed lambs and calves. Scotland remained largely unaffected with very limited evidence of exposure through antibody testing or clinical disease seen. …

SRUC Veterinary Services
09/01/2025

Cases of interest

As 2024 draws to a close it is not long now before we pass the shortest day and move into 2025, and we wish you all some time off to enjoy at least part of the festive season. Please note that the laboratory in Edinburgh is closed on the 25th & 26th December and the 1st & 2nd of January.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
17/12/2024

Achieving a more targeted BVD Check Test

Scotland’s BVD eradication scheme requires all breeding herds to update their BVD status annually. The Check Test suits some herds very well and when vets are allowed to implement it properly, it is an extremely reliable test for BVD exposure.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
22/11/2024

Ruminal acidosis

At this time of year, it is not uncommon to see cases of ruminal acidosis, this is often due to dietary changes associated with reduced grazing or housing.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
22/11/2024

Parasite disease update November 2024 – South West Scotland

It is always interesting and challenging to predict the seasonal variations in parasite disease risk. This year is no exception and the often used phase ‘test and don’t guess’ is particularly relevant.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
21/11/2024

FREE identification of exotic worms and worm-like parasites in dogs by APHA

A new surveillance project allows vets to submit samples from dogs for the FREE identification of exotic worms and worm-like parasites by APHA. …

SRUC Veterinary Services
10/10/2024

Revolutionizing Health Risk Management for Beef and Sheep Farmers: A New Web-App for Vets

HerdPlan, funded by the Scottish Government and developed by SRUC’s Veterinary Services team, enables UK vets and farmers to work together to create proactive health plans to improve productivity and increase income on farm.  …

SRUC Veterinary Services
08/10/2024

Quarantine: why and how long?

With sheep sales underway and many more on the horizon, now is an ideal time to review your quarantine procedures to avoid bringing in more than you bargained for. Buying in any stock can pose a significant health risk to your flock. If done well, quarantine can remove or reduce the risk posed by incoming animals.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
13/09/2024

A shortage of EAE vaccine: what sheep farmers need to know

Sheep farmers are likely already aware of the issues with the availability of the Enzootic Abortion (EAE) vaccine prior to this tupping season. This shortage could lead to difficulties for some flocks next lambing season. The impact of this vaccine shortage will vary depending on individual flock circumstances.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
12/09/2024