Minutes of 14 October meeting

1. Members were welcomed to the third meeting of the Scottish Animal Health and Welfare Advisory Group and agreed the minutes of the previous meeting.

Agenda Item 2 - Matters Arising

2. As a follow up to the last meeting, the chair informed the group that letters would be sent out to those farmers accepted under the Animal Health and Welfare Management Programmes option.

3. The Chair gave a brief description of his meeting with Helen Browning, Chairwoman of the England Implementation Group, highlighting that the EIG are currently concerned with defining their role and responsibilities.

4. It was agreed that all other action points from the previous meeting had been covered, with most action points to be discussed under specific agenda items.

Agenda Item 3 - Stakeholder Priorities Survey - analysis

5. The chair indicated that there had been a low response rate (10%) and that this is a lesson that will be learned for the future. However it was noted that all diseases and welfare problems identified by respondents fell within the list of 15 identified by the Group for potential targeting. Members agreed to bear this in mind as one source of information which could inform their discussion on targets.

Agenda Item 4 - Targets for Strategy Implementation in Scotland

6. Following the August meeting a shortlist of diseases and welfare conditions was developed. SEERAD produced a paper providing key information on how these could be measured and targeted over time. The paper was presented to the group, and discussion surrounded the following criteria:

· Are they relevant to industry - in terms of economic impact, public health and public perception?

· Can we influence future trends over the specified period?

· Can we set a baseline?

· Are we able to accurately monitor them?

7. The group considered each of the diseases and conditions identified as well as making some general comments. This discussion was wide-ranging and lengthy and as a result time became an issue. General points included:

· Ensure targets are handled carefully - be realistic in target setting

· Consider whether we need to do something specific or monitor existing practices for each priority area

· One consequence of better reporting and surveillance could be an increase in reports of disease

· Review targets annually (as well as reviewing progress, some may need revision in light of access to better information)

· Keep targets fluid

· Fund prevalence studies

· Encourage abattoir-farmer feedback

8. Specific priorities, included in the paper, were discussed and a revised paper would be produced for the Group's consideration. It was suggested that further consideration be given to these, in particular their presentation at the Scottish Conference, following the circulation of a revised table.

ACTION: Group members to give SEERAD further comments on targets by 21st October

ACTION: Following this, SEERAD to produce a revised table highlighting key points for each priority area - for agreement by Advisory Group members.

Agenda Item 5 - Scottish Animal Health and Welfare Conference

9. A brief summary was given of arrangements made since the last meeting towards organising the Conference, including a confirmation that three of the four speakers are in place. Members agreed that:

· Charles Milne will chair the event

· Andy Robertson will give the opening talk on targets

· Group members (where available) will chair the breakout groups

· They will help identify "real farmers" to attend the Conference

· They will identify names of those within their own organisations who will attend

ACTION: Members to give SEERAD the names of farmers and representatives of their own organisations to attend the Conference

ACTION: Following this, SEERAD to send out invitations

10. The Chair apologised for the fact that, due to time constraints, other items would need to be held over for a future meeting.

Agenda Item 8 - AOB and future agenda items

11. The following topics were suggested for the next meeting:

· Scottish Conference - follow up

· Welfare

· Biosecurity

12. It was suggested that the welfare paper produced by the SSPCA could be supported by a discussion on welfare research.

ACTION: SAC to consider speakers for the next meeting, possibly a research presentation on welfare.

ACTION: SEERAD to canvass availability for the next SAHWAG meeting.

Paper 4.1 Biosecurity

Purpose

1. To seek the Group's views on the current levels of biosecurity in Scotland and to identify what could be done to help raise this further.

Background

2. Concern has been expressed from a number sources about the existing level of biosecurity, particularly the perception that they have fallen back to pre-2001 levels. Mr Finnie has asked for the Group's views on the current situation and what can be done. It is recognised that some of this falls into the more general debate of how the Scottish priorities will be met but the Group's reactions will be useful at this stage to assess the current level of attention to bio security and opportunities to raise it further.

3. Biosecurity was a key pillar of the Executive's response to the Foot and Mouth Disease inquiries as one of the pillars in minimising the risk of future disease outbreaks (the others were minimising the risk of disease being imported into the country and maximising our preparedness to respond where it does). It is recognised that there is a lack of clarity among some individuals on the meaning of the term Biosecurity. For our purposes we have defined it as:

Biosecurity is about taking action to reduce the risk of disease occurring or spreading to other animals.

4. In some quarters Biosecurity is often regarded in terms of providing disinfectant at the farm gate. There are two problems with this - it is about much more than having disinfection facilities, but even when that is all a farmer has, it is not used sufficiently. In recent years we have undertaken a number of initiatives to raise the level of biosecurity and these are identified at Annex A. However, concern has been expressed that practices are not as good as they could be - e.g. greater care in considering health status when buying in stock.

Conclusion

5. The Group's views on the current level of biosecurity in Scotland is invited. In particular do all sectors have biosecurity measures/practices in place and, if so, how can they be effectively tightened up?

Annex - Biosecurity Key Areas

Farm level

Biosecurity Code of Practice

Development of SVQ training module in biosecurity (for inclusion in entry level and/ or targeted training)

Practical support through Biosecurity Advisory Activity

Specific guidance on sourcing of stock

Markets

Market biosecurity guidance

Hauliers

Best practice included within Market Biosecurity guidance.

Paper 4.2 Targets for Strategy implementation in Scotland

Purpose

1. As agreed at the last Advisory Group meeting, to inform the members of existing information on potential health and welfare priority areas.

Background

2. The setting of targets was discussed at the 17th August meeting and Group members agreed that these priority areas, and where possible targets, should be outlined at the 2005 Conference. It was agreed that ten targets was about the right number, and that three of these should be notifiable diseases (Bovine TB, BSE and Scrapie) with the others being split between endemic diseases and welfare conditions. An initial suggestion for the timeframe was a five year period, to give focus to the need for action to start now and focus the mind.

Information on potential target areas

3. From discussion at the last meeting and afterwards, a list of potential target areas was drawn up, and we have researched background information on these (this is included here as an Annex) to allow informed discussion as to which could usefully form priorities. It is suggested that the principal criteria for assessing these priorities are:

· Are they relevant to the industry?

· Can we influence future trends?

· Can we set a baseline?

· Are we able to accurately monitor them?

There is a general expectation that all priorities should have targets; however we recognise that some diseases and conditions may not always be readily quantifiable.

4. While there is a considerable amount of information available on the notifiable diseases, there are limitations to the current information sources for some others. Over time many of these gaps may be plugged. Another issue is that, although information is available from disease surveillance centres, this does not necessarily give an accurate reflection of prevalence.

Conclusion

5. The Group is invited to

i) Note the existing information for each potential target area; and

ii) Discuss and agree priority areas for action

Targets for Scottish Strategy implementation

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

TB in cattle

Can be expressed as confirmed breakdowns (farms affected) or confirmed reactors (animals affected). A TB breakdown is confirmed when at least one animal has visible lesions or when there is laboratory confirmation of the presence of M. bovis in the tissue samples submitted.

Official records held by the State Veterinary Service (SVS)

Breakdowns;

Reactors

in Scotland:

1995: 8 10

1996:10 24

1997: 8 38

1998: 4 8

1999: 7 11

2000: 4 23

2001: 2 2

2002: 28 49

2003: 22 50

2004: 23 28

2005: 10* 22*

* first six months only

Aim for 80% reduction by 2010.

Pre- and post-movement testing should remove the majority of infected cattle.

Subject to legislation but dependent on compliance by farmers and enforcement by Local Authorities, SVS, including zero tolerance to overdue tests.

Expect initial increase in breakdowns after Sep 2005 because pre- & post movement testing rules will result in more high risk cattle being targeted for testing. New testing policy may reduce cattle imports from high risk areas reducing risk of new breakdowns occurring.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

BSE

Confirmed cases from active and passive surveillance

Official records held by the SVS

Confirmed cases in Scotland:

1995: 672

1996: 302

1997: 141

1998: 85

1999: 37

2000: 38

2001: 52

2002: 99

2003: 41

2004: 37

2005: 10*

* first six months only

Expect BSE to be eradicated from Scotland by 2009.

Subject to legislation but dependent on compliance by farmers, renderers, feed companies and enforcement by SVS and Local Authorities.

The increase in cases in 2001 and 2002 was due to the introduction of the active surveillance schemes for BSE.

Any failures as a result of feeding of infective material likely to take five years or more to become apparent.

BSE in a Scottish goat was confirmed earlier this year.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Scrapie

Confirmed cases from active and passive surveillance

Official records held by the SVS

Confirmed cases in Scotland:

1995: 45

1996: 73

1997: 113

1998: 105

1999: 112

2000: 85

2001: 77

2002: 79

2003: 39

2004: 36

2005: 10*

* first six months only

Expect reduction over the next 20 years as control measures take effect.

A combination of legislation and schemes are in operation.

(1) Compulsory & voluntary scrapie slaughter schemes.

(2) The National Scrapie Plan (NSP) for Great Britain is a strategic long-term plan which consists of a breeding programme to increase the number of sheep that genetically are naturally resistant to TSEs.

(3) Compulsory Ram Genotyping Scheme

Scrapie has been a notifiable disease since January 1993. Although scrapie is a notifiable disease we suspect that the true incidence is under-reported. This may be reflected in 2005 when the Compulsory Scrapie Flocks scheme was introduced.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Mastitis

Mastitis in milking cows

(1) Bulk milk cell counts could give long term trend information.

(2) SAC Vet Services have records of mastitis organisms recovered by their Disease Surveillance Centres (DSC)

(3) Information on sales of milking cow intramammary preps might be obtained from wholesalers

(4) GB survey by CD Wilson & MS Richards published in the Vet Rec (1980) 106 431-435.

The prevalences of the various infections recorded were Streptococcus agalactiae 3.4 per cent of quarters, S dysgalactiae 1.1 per cent, S uberis 1.5 per cent and Staphylococcus pyogenes 8.1 per cent. The national prevalence of subclinical mastitis was 9.6% of all quarters.

Little data on recent trends in Scotland.

Desirable that mastitis levels should be reduced.

Cell counts have been reducing steadily over the past 10 years or so mainly linked to financial penalities imposed by milk buyers on high cell count bulk milk.

(1) Milk buying companies in Scotland hold this data.

(2) SAC contribute data to VIDA but keep Scottish data separately.

(3) John Cooper of Dunlops (a wholesaler) has agree in principle to providing figures on sales of intra mammary tubes to Scottish vets

No. of cases of mastitis which required treatment or which died will be recorded in benchmarking option of AH&WMPs .

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Lameness

Lameness in cattle is a clinical sign of many different conditions, varying from a stone penetrating the sole to arthritis of the hip.

Lameness in sheep and pigs can be the result of systemic disease, local infection or injury.

No regular recording is in place.

Published surveys on dairy cattle lameness:

(1) Russell AM et al (1982) Vet Rec 111 155-160

GB Survey completed 1977 5.5% of cows in 1821 herds treated by vet.

(2) Whittaker DA et al (1983) Vet Rec 113 60-62.

Survey of herds in England & Wales 6.3 % cows in 185 herds treated by vet. Data from Edinburgh University Dairy Health Scheme which has almost no Scottish clients.

(3) Sheep lameness: Clements ACA, Mellor DJ & Fitzpatrick JL (2002) 150 815-817.

(3) Approx 10% of 145,000 sheep treated for lameness (2.2% of lame sheep treated by vet)

No specific Scottish study is available to determine lameness in cattle. However the two studies mentioned give a starting point for estimates.

The survey by Clements et al is recent and specific to one area of Scotland.

Reduction would significantly improve welfare of cattle, sheep and pigs.

Lameness reduces performance in both beef and dairy cattle; it has a negative influence on feed intake and conversion, body weight, milk production, sexual activity, fertility, and in some instances, longevity.

Well designed publicity drives could have a genuine impact.

Lameness in cattle and sheep will be recorded as part of the benchmarking option in AH&WMPs.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Sheep scab

Dermatitis caused by infestation with Psoroptes ovis.

There is no centralised collection of data on prevalence in Scotland.

A survey was completed by the Scottish Sheep Scab Initiative earlier in 2005.

The survey by the Scottish Sheep scab Initiative confirmed that sheep scab was present in all parts of Scotland apart from Shetland. Future improvements may be tracked on an area by area basis as local initiatives take effect.

Highly desirable to eliminate sheep scab from Scotland.

Industry is taking a lead through the Scottish Sheep Scab Initiative.

Local authorities have legal powers to restrict movement and require treatment of diseased sheep.

Shetland Isles have legal powers to check and treat sheep at import.

Control of sheep scab has been complicated by H&S concerns for the users of organophosphorous (OPs) compounds and environmental controls on the safe disposal of sheep dips.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Caseous lymphadenitis (CLA)

Caseous lymphadenitis is a chronic, suppurative disease

caused by infection with the bacterium Corynebacterium

pseudotuberculosis which affects several animal species particularly sheep & goats.

Baird G et al

Vet Rec (2004)

154, 505-506

Survey

of caseous

lymphadenitis

seroprevalence in British terminal sire

sheep breeds

In 2000, a total of 2538 samples from rams in 745 flocks in health

schemes. gave an overall apparent prevalence of seropositive animals

within the sample group of 9.93%, 18% flocks had one or more positives.

It would be desirable to reduce the prevalence of this condition because it can cause losses in the slaughterhouse as well as removing valuable breeding sheep from flocks.

SAC trial scheme available for breeding rams at Kelso & Lairg this year. Based on use of blood testing and inspections and certification by vet.

Schemes to detect and remove infected sheep still require some development in the field but early indications are promising.

Serological test developed at Moredun by Graeme Baird of SAC. Although the test is being used diagnostically the breeding ram scheme is being kept under close review by SAC Vet Services to ensure the scheme is operating reliably.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Johne's disease

A chronic bacterial disease of cattle, sheep, goats and many other species caused by Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP), also known as paratuberculosis. Cattle and sheep

tend to be infected by different strains, but most strains appear to be able to infect several species.

Scanning surveillance: results of the testing of diagnostic samples are recorded by SAC in VIDA

No current targeted surveillance.

Estimates suggest that in 2000 there were 1,000 cases in GB rising to 2,400 in 2004. This suggests that between 20-50% of herds are infected. Denmark has estimated 55% herd prevalence rate (source Caldow, G SAC St Boswells)

In the absence of recent survey results membership of control schemes might prove an indirect measure.

The SGDIA survey is designed to assess UK prevalence. An estimate of Scottish prevalence may emerge but the primary aim of the survey is to provide an estimate of prevalence at the UK level.

Reduction in prevalence would reduce financial losses in infected herds, reduce a possible source of infection for humans* and improve welfare by reducing the numbers of animals suffering.

* the relationship of MAP to Crohn's disease remains uncertain.

The Welsh Black Initiative has shown the benefits of control. 71 out of 216 herds are "monitored free". Breeders have begun to get higher prices (£3,500 for accredited versus £1,800 for non-accredited bulls.

Johne's control is also an option in the SAC Premium Cattle Health Scheme and Biobest's Herdcare schemes

SGDIA has set up a UK wide survey to establish prevalence in dairy farms in UK. Study is due to start this winter.

Survey will be a joint effort by VLA, SAC, MRI & DARD.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Contagous ovine digital dermatitis (CODD)/ Digital dermatitis

CODD is

a severe ovine foot disease, signs of include initial

ulcerative and proliferative lesions at the coronet, followed

by extensive under-running and even complete

detachment of the hoof .

Postal survey completed in 1999 & 2000 in England & Wales Wassink et al Vet Rec (2003) 152 504-406

11/203 respondents said CODD was present in their flock

No recent data available for Scottish flocks.

Reduction or eradication of this condition would result in major welfare benefits in affected flocks.

Failure to recognise this disease might impede attempts to control.

Advisory/educational campaign could be successful.

An advisory leaflet "Lameness in Sheep" was published by Defra in 2003. It has advice on control and treatment of foot rot and CODD.

A survey, possibly postal, of Scottish farmers could be a useful starting point.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (OPA) also known as jaagsiekte,

Pulmonary adenocarcinoma is a contagious, viral, neoplastic disease of the lungs of sheep and more rarely of goats.

No reliable data on prevalence are available.

Cases diagnosed at SAC Disease Surveillance Centres are recorded but do necessarily give an accurate reflection of prevalence. VIDA figures record about 40 diagnoses per year in GB. Reports suggest that although this is a disease of older sheep that up to 10% of a flock can affected.

No reliable figures are available for Scotland at present.

Reduction would be ideal but until more is known about the influence of management and the effect of other co-existing diseases it is difficult to make firm recommendations until further research is complete.

Moredun have developed a PCR test for the jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (JSRV). It is currently undergoing validation. They also hope to develop a vaccine to JSRV. Successful conclusion of this work would allow control and eradication straegies to be developed.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the disease is becoming more common.

Moredun are doing a survey across Scotland to estimate OPA in Scottish flocks and identify management factors which may play a part.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Foot rot

A condition affecting the hooves of sheep caused by combined infection with Fusobacterium necrophorum and Bacteroides nodosus.

(1) A postal survey carried out in 1997, by the Royal Veterinary College,

showed that of 547 farms 92% had a problem with lameness and the

reported incidence of lameness on those farms was between 6% and 11% of all sheep. Foot rot accounted for 39% of all cases of lameness.

(2) Hosie, B

Proceedings of the Sheep Veterinary Society (2003) 27, p65.

In 2002 SAC carried out a survey to assess the extent of footrot in Scottish flocks. The survey showed that more than 90% of sheep flocks had experienced cases of footrot in the previous year

Widely recognised as a common problem in sheep. Significant reductions in prevalence should become readily apparent.

Reduction or eradication of this condition would result in major welfare benefits in affected flocks.

An advisory leaflet "Lameness in Sheep" was published by Defra in 2003. It has advice on control and treatment of foot rot and CODD.

SAC Veterinary Services hosted a workshop at the Pentlands Science

Park, Edinburgh, in 2003, to discuss issues surrounding the diagnosis

and treatment of lameness in sheep .

A LINK project with various partners, SAC included, is underway:

"Breeding for resistance to footrot: combining molecular and phenotypic approaches."

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD)

Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) virus causes a wide variety of clinical disease syndromes in cattle including, diarrhoea infertility, abortion, and congenital defects in calves.

(1) Paton, DJ et al Vet Rec (2003) 142 385-391

A survey of bulk milk samples from 1070 herds in England & Wales showed that 95% of herds were positive, many strongly positive, suggesting recent infection

Cases diagnosed at SAC Disease surveillance Centres are recorded in VIDA

It is likely that BVD is just as prevalent in Scotland as in E&W but there is a need for a Scottish study which includes beef herds.

Reduction in prevalence by removal of persistently infected cattle would probably have a significant impact on cattle health overall.

BVD is included in the SAC Premium Cattle Health Scheme, Hi Health and Biobest's Herdcare scheme.

Many EU countries have achieved or are close to eradicating BVD.

SEERAD have just announced that they intend to fund a study into the prevalence of the disease in dairy and beef cattle in Scotland. The study will also seek to identify management practices which affect occurrence in herds. Tenders are being sought.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR)

Bovine Herpesvirus (BHV-1) is associated with several diseases in cattle: infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), infectious pustular vulvovaginitis (IPV), balanoposthitis, conjunctivitis, abortion, encephalomyelitis, and mastitis.

(1) All bulls being approved by SEERAD for artificial insemination are blood tested.

34/72 (47%) of bulls tested since 17/03/04 have been IBR positive.

(2) Paton, DJ et al Vet Rec (2003) 142 385-391

A survey of bulk milk samples from 341 herds in England & Wales showed that 69% of herds were BHV-1 positive

Cases diagnosed at SAC Disease surveillance Centres are recorded in VIDA.

The IBR status of bulls being tested prior to approval for AI provides a simple if crude measure of prevalence.

Because of the advances made by our EU trading partners IBR infection may prevent the export of some breeding cattle. Scotland would benefit from a coordinated approach to eliminating this virus.

IBR is included in both the SAC Premium Cattle Health Scheme, Hi Health and Biobest's Herdcare scheme.

Many EU countries have achieved or are close to eradicating IBR nationally or regionally.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Pneumonia

There are a number of types and causes of pneumonia in animals.

Calf pneumonia, for example is influenced or caused by, immune status, exposure to parasitic, viral or bacterial pathogens, building factors, and other environmental stressors.

Cases of pneumonia diagnosed at SAC Disease surveillance Centres are recorded in VIDA.

Enzootic pneumonia of pigs is recorded in the Wholesome Pigs abattoir survey operated by David Stracahan of SAC.

More definition is required before data can be provided.

Reduction would significantly improve animal welfare in Scotland and improve profitability.

AH&WMPs which have sound action plans could have a significant impact.

This is one of the parameters being recorded in the benchmarking option of AH&WMPs for cattle.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Fluke

Acute and chronic disease are caused by a liver fluke Fasciola hepatica.

(1) Froyd, G VetRec (1975) 97 492-495

Data from 213,082 cattle and 362,838 sheep livers from 8239 farms was collected. 53% of the farms were affected 21 per cent of all cattle and 7 per cent of all sheep livers had liver fluke.

(2) Cases diagnosed at SAC Disease surveillance Centres are recorded in VIDA.

(3) The Meat Hygiene Service collects data on condemnations due to fluke in Sc Between Jul 2004 & Jun 2005 22.23% of cattle between 6 weeks and 30 months and 39.38% all OTMS cattle and 15.29% of sheep had livers condemned.ottish abattoirs.

At the current high levels of prevalence data from Scottish abattoirs would provide a useful measure of progress.

Further reduction in cases of disease in sheep and a reduction in cattle.

The success of the SEERAD funded campaign shows that prevalence can be influenced by a well organised advisory campaign.

)The number of outbreaks of fasciolosis due to the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica appears to have increased dramatically in sheep and cattle in Scotland in recent years and reached

unprecedented levels in 2002/3. Cases in sheep decreased in 2004 partly due to a SEERAD funded campaign.

The dependence of the parasite on its intermediate host, the dwarf pond snail, means that a forecasting system could be developed based on snail counts at strategic sites and interpretation of climate data.

Feedback from abattoir to farm would be a useful tool in highlighting occurrence in individual flocks or herds.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Anthelmintic resistance

Anthelmintic resistance exists if the parasite can tolerate anthelmintic doses which are normally lethal and the ability to do so is heritable.

A survey of Scottish sheep flocks found that resitance to benzimidazoles was 81% in lowland flocks, 45% in hill flocks and 56% in upland flocks

Bartley, DJ et al Vet Rec.(2001) 149: 94 - 95

Bartley, DJ et al (2003) Vet Parasitology 117 61-71

The studies reported by Bartley provide a useful baseline.

It would be desirable to stop the spread of resistant strains of parasites. If resistance became widespread this might result in sheep husbandry becoming less intensive as the available anthelmintics became less effective

SCOPS was started in an attempt to highlight the worsening situation by promoting research and publicity campaigns.

Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCPOS) is chaired by the National Sheep Association and includes from SNFU, NOAH, AHDA, RUMA, CSL/VLA, Sheep Veterinary Society, DEFRA and SAC.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Laminitis (in horses)

Laminitis is a disease associated with ischaemia of digital dermal tissues in the hoof. Various factors are believed to cause laminitis including: obesity

overeating

toxaemia

trauma

iatrogenic actions

hormonal

(1) Hinckley K.A., Henderson I.W. (1996)Proc of the 35th BEVA Warwick. pp62)

From a study involving 113,000 horses in the UK it was estimated that the total prevalence of acute laminitis in the UK was over 8,000 cases annually, giving a prevalence of 7.1%.

(2) In a recent study of a large charity farm in East Anglia with a population of 1140 horses and ponies, there were an average of 148 episodes of laminitis (prevalence of 13%) occurring each year (between 1997 and 1999) involving 113 animals

Source: Dr Simon Bailey RVC

No specific Scottish data currently available.

This is a significant cause of suffering in horses and ponies in Scotland and elsewhere. An overall reduction in prevalence is desirable.

Our understanding of the aetiology of laminitis in horses is incomplete. It would be difficult to formulate a package of advice for horse owners until more is known about some of the avoidable causes.

A project funded by BVA Animal Welfare Foundation has just started. It is being carried out by members of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) as part of a series of BEVA initiatives in evidence-based veterinary medicine.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Disease culling

Premature removal of productive animals from a herd or flock because of disease or injury.

No centralised data available for Scotland. Surveys from UK largely concentrate on the reasons for culling dairy cows.

eg Singleton and Dobson Vet Rec (1995) 136(7):162-5.

The three main reasons for culling were infertility (28.2 per cent), mastitis (21.8 per cent) and old age (15.8 per cent). In 50.9 per cent of cases the farmer thought that the cow was not pregnant. The average age of the slaughtered cows was 7.9 years.

No reliable Scottish data at present for cattle, sheep or pigs.

Culling animals is a necessary part of livestock farming and there are occasions when culling is necessary to prevent the spread of diseases such as staphylococcal mastitis.

However, reduction of premature losses of productive animals could save producers considerable sums otherwise spent on replacements.

Progress can only be made once the major reasons for culling are known and understood.

Reasons for culling are included in the parameters to be recorded in the benchmarking element of AH&WMPs for sheep.

Diseases and conditions

Definition

Information source

Baseline

Desired future trend

Ability to influence

Additional issues

Mortality rates

The number of deaths in a population at risk during a defined time period.

BCMS data offers the chance to analyse cattle mortality data in details. Reliable information could be produced for any age group or type of cattle, time of the year or location offering the opportunity of highlighting problem age groups or times of the year.

Data on other species is not so readily obtained but better estimates of sheep losses may emerge from benchmarking.

Reduction in losses caused by abortion or early death would have a significant benefit on profitability.

Reduction in mortality rates can only be achieved by improvements in the control of certain conditions such as calf pneumonia or neonatal losses in lambs or piglets.

(1) This includes cattle destroyed on farm. Data available includes:

CPH of birth

CPH of death

Dates of birth and death.

CPHs and dates of intermediate movements

Breed

Sex

(2) This data only records cattle dying on farm and excludes those destroyed.

No data is collected routinely for other species but mortality rates will be included in the parameters to be recorded in the benchmarking element of AH&WMPs for sheep and cattle.

Paper 4.3 Scottish Animal Health and Welfare Conference

Purpose

To inform Advisory Group members of initial arrangements for this year's Conference and to discuss the finalisation of arrangements.

Background

On the basis of the discussion at the meeting on 17th August and subsequent feedback, we have made basic arrangements for the Conference - inviting speakers and organising the venue. As previously indicated the Conference will be on 21st November. We have provisionally booked facilities at New Lanark Mill Hotel.

Format

An agenda is attached at Annex A, highlighting the keynote speech and areas to be covered by the individual speakers. The key themes of the day will be the communicating of priorities and discussing (in breakout groups) how these can best be achieved.

Last year around 100 people attended the Conference and we would be aiming for a similar number this time. I attach a draft guest list at Annex B and would welcome your thoughts on additional attendees, particularly "real farmers". We are looking to send invitations to a maximum of 130 people.

As chair of the Advisory Group we propose that Charles Milne should chair the event and we would invite other group members to be involved on the day as chairs of the various breakout groups in the afternoon as well as involvement in the plenary session. Key points for discussion in these breakout groups are attached at Annex C.

A key part of the Conference will be the opening talk on targets, and we will need an Advisory Group member to deliver this. Someone from the industry would help us give out the right message, and we would ask the Group's agreement to Andy presenting this item.

Conclusion

Members are invited to:

i) note the Conference arrangements which have been put in place;

ii) offer suggestions on Conference attendees; and

iii) agree to chair breakout groups and to the speakers suggested

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Paper 4.4 Defining Scottish Animal Health and Welfare Priorities

FINDINGS FROM STAKEHOLDER SURVEY

BACKGROUND

The Scottish Animal Health and Welfare Advisory Group asked SEERAD to conduct a survey of stakeholders. The aim of the survey was to identify Scottish needs and priorities regarding animal health and welfare.
The questionnaire was designed by the animal health and welfare policy team in SEERAD with input from the advisory group.
The questionnaire covered topics such as farmer and Scotland's priorities for animal health and welfare, potential business changes over the coming years, sources of advice, effective methods of providing information.
1500 questionnaires were distributed over the period July to September 2005.
This note summarises responses from the stakeholder questionnaire
The findings are based on 142 responses. The low response rate (< 10%) means that the results are not representative of all stakeholders and can only be viewed as a straw poll of a small number of stakeholders.

CHARACTERISTICS OF FARMERS COMPLETING QUESTIONNAIRE

Table 1 summarises the farm types of the respondents. The majority of respondents belong to the beef sector (52.5%) but there is also a large proportion from the sheep sector (21.3%).

Table 1: Farm type

	Number	%
Beef sector	64	52.5
Dairy sector	12	19.8
Sheep sector	26	21.3
Pig sector	18	14.8
Broilers	2	1.6
Total	122	100.0
Missing	20

FARMER AND GOVERNMENT PRIORITIES FOR ANIMAL HEALTH AND WELFARE

Table 2 shows farmers views on their own priorities for animal health as well as their views on what Scotland's top priority for animal health should be.
The top priority for farmers is pneumonia.
The top priority for Scotland is controlling bovine TB.
Note that for both questions, there is a higher percentage in the 'other' category. This results from the 'open ended' nature of the question. It also suggests that there is no general consensus as to what the top priorities are.
When comparing the priorities across groups, the clear difference is that TB is considered a priority for Scotland rather than for farmers (23% for Scotland compared to 6% for farmers).

Table 2: Farmers' Views on Top Priorities for Animal Health

	Own priority	Scotland 's priority
	Number	%	Number	%
Johnes	9	6.6	10	7.7
Mastitis	8	5.8	1	0.8
Foot rot	6	4.4	4	3.1
Lameness	6	4.4	3	2.3
Liver fluke	9	6.6	7	5.4
Pneumonia	13	9.5	7	5.4
Scab	9	6.6	16	12.3
BVD	10	7.3	11	8.5
TB	8	5.8	30	23.1
PMWS	5	3.6	3	2.3
FMD	2	1.5	4	3.1
Scrapie	2	1.5	2	1.5
High health status	12	8.8	5	3.8
Fertility	3	2.2	2	1.5
Other	35	25.5	25	19.2
Total	104	100.0	130	100
Missing	3		12

Table 3 shows farmers views on their own priorities for animal welfare as well as their views on what Scotland's top priority for animal welfare should be.
The top priority for farmers is improving housing.
The top priority for Scotland is improving transport.
Note that for both questions, there is a higher percentage in the 'other' category. This results from the 'open ended' nature of the question. It also suggests that there is no general consensus as to what the top priorities are. There are also a number of missing responses.
When comparing the priorities across groups, the main differences are that housing and lameness are considered priorities for Scotland rather than for farmers.

Table 3: Farmers' Views on Top Priorities for Animal Welfare

	Number	%	Number	%
Housing	19	14.8	9	7.6
Food	13	10.2	8	6.7
Transport	6	7.7	13	10.9
Stocking density	8	6.3	5	4.2
Water	6	4.7	5	4.2
Lameness	15	11.7	7	5.9
Feet	12	9.4	5	4.2
Handling facilities	3	2.3	2	1.7
Allow tail docking	2	1.6	0	0.0
Other	44	34.4	65	54.6
Total	128	100.0	119	100.0
Missing	14		23

VIEWS ON HOW BUSINESS MAY CHANGE IN THREE YEARS

Table 4 shows farmers views on their business may change over the next three years.
Stock increase is the most commonly cited change but others are planning to decrease stock.
A labour decrease is more commonly cited change than a labour increase.

Table 4: Views on how business may change over the next three years

Change	% changing
Total stock increase	41
Total stock decrease	34
Change of species	9
Change of breed	30
Labour increase	11
Labour decrease	37

Sums to > 100% as multiple responses were allowed

SOURCE OF ADVICE ON ANIIMAL HEALTH AND WELFARE

Table 5 shows farmers views on where they get advice on animal health and welfare on a typical year.
The most common source of advice is from other farmers (80%) followed by the vet (60%).
The average number of times advice is sought is highest for other farmers, vets and agricultural merchants.

Table 5: Sources of advice

Source	% ever using for advice	Average number of times sought advice per year
Vet	60	7
Other farmers	80	9
Agricultural merchants/salesman	34	7
SAC/other advisers/literature	28	4

% column sums to > 100% as multiple responses were allowed

EFFECTIVE METHODS OF BEING INFORMED OF BEST PRACTICE

Table 6 shows farmers views on the most effective methods of information them about best practice in animal health and welfare.
The most effective method is face to face meetings (40% ranking top).
The least effective methods are text messaging and emails (1% ranking top).

Table 6: Effective method of information

Method	% ranking as most effective method
Leaflets	11
Newsletters	17
Technical sheets	19
Websites	3
Text messages	1
Emails	1
Face to face meetings	40
Conferences	6
On farm demonstrations	20

Sums to > 100% as multiple responses were allowed

STOCKMANSHIP

Table 7 shows the average number of stockmen employed by the farmers returning questionnaires.
The average number employed is two but there is variation around the average.

Table 7: Number of stockmen employed

Average	Min	Max
2	0	28

Table 8 shows what stockmanship training farmers and stockmen have had. The stockman figures refer to those of the main stockman.
Farmers are more likely to be degree or HND level educated than stockmen.

Table 8: Stockmanship training

Type of training	% of farmer with type of training	% of main stockman with type of training
Degree level	20	4
HND/HNC level	30	14
Subject specific courses	32	30
Informal on farm training	45	4

Sums to > 100% as multiple responses were allowed

VET CONSULTATIONS

Table 9 shows the average number of vet consultations by the farmers returning questionnaires.
The average number is twelve but there is variation around the average

Table 9: Number of consultations with vet over last 12 months

Average	Min	Max
12	0	100

Table 10 shows farmer's first reason for calling a vet.
The most common reason is for calving plus a range of other reasons that cannot be grouped separately. Problem solving is another common reason for calling a vet, with around 20%.

Table 10: Farmer's first reason for calling a vet

	Number	%
Calving	39	28.3
Lambing	11	8.0
Pneumonia	10	7.2
Blood test	4	2.9
Pregnancy test	6	4.3
Other	41	29.7
Problem solving	27	19.6
Total	138	100.0
Missing	4

Sums to > 100% as multiple responses were allowed

EXTERNAL CONTRACTORS

Table 11 shows the percentage of farmers using external contractors by type of use.
The most common reason is for pregnancy scanning followed by shearers.
The least common reason is for contract milking.

Table 11: % using external contractors by use

Use	% Using
Foot trimmers	31
Contract shepherding	9
Contract milking	5
Labour rings	15
Pregnancy scanning	56
Artificial insemination	33
Dipping	18
Shearers	46
Others	1

Sums to > 100% as multiple responses were allowed

MEASURES IN OPERATION ON PREMISES TO MINIMISE HEALTH AND WELFARE RISKS

Table 12 shows the measures that are in operation on farmers premises to minimise health and welfare risks.
The most commonly cited risk measures are health plan followed closely by animal handling facilities.
The least commonly cited risk measures is pre-movement testing and double fencing.

Table 12: % Using Risk Minimising measures

Measure	% Using
New stock management	68
Testing of incoming stock	34
Pre-movement testing	17
Isolation facilities	79
Double fencing	20
Breeding own replacements	81
Bio-security plan	73
Health plan	89
Membership of health scheme	62
Welfare assessment	54
Foot care programme	51
Loading facilities	76
Animal handling facilities	87
Controlled visitor access	37

Sums to > 100% as multiple responses were allowed

AWARENESS OF ANIMAL HEALTH STRAETGY AND LAND MANAGEMENT CONTRACT MENU OPTION

Table 13 shows awareness of the animal health and welfare strategy and the land management contract menu option.
Around two thirds of farmers responding said they aware of the strategy and the menu option.

Table 13: Awareness of animal health strategy and menu option

Method	% aware
Animal health and welfare strategy	66%
Animal health and welfare option in land management contract menu scheme	65%

October 2005

Animal Health and Welfare Division

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department

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SCOTTISH ANIMAL HEALTH AND WELFARE ADVISORY GROUP MEETING 14 OCTOBER 2005 MINUTES

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