Vets respond to Scottish government’s animal health and welfare strategy for the livestock industry
Responding to the Scottish government’s recently-published animal health and welfare in the livestock industry: strategy 2016 to 2021, President of BVA Scottish Branch Grace Webster said:
"BVA and BVA Scottish Branch welcome this strategy tailored to Scotland’s needs, and the government’s one health approach in monitoring and regularly reporting the links between animal health and welfare as well as wider societal and climatic concerns. We wholly agree with the strategy’s recognition of the critical importance of surveillance as a tool in eradicating endemic diseases in Scotland, and its focus on promoting the responsible use of antimicrobials to safeguard future use.
“We recognise that delivering improvements in animal health and welfare is not a job for just one agency or group yet we would have liked to see more recognition of the frontline role of the veterinary surgeon in safeguarding animal health and promoting animal welfare. BVA Scottish Branch is looking forward to working as part of the Welfare Working Group to implement the actions that have been clearly laid out to achieve best health and welfare outcomes for Scotland’s livestock."
