IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Changes to “under vet care” RCVS guidance
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has released new guidance on dispensing prescription-only medicines and 24/7 emergency cover. The reason for this guidance is to avoid the selling of medicines for animals that are not seen by a vet and the lack of 24/7 coverage by some veterinary providers.
The new guidance states that in order to prescribe medicines, the birds need to be under the care of a vet and the vet must carry out a clinical assessment of the flock. In practical terms, we already do this as it is a requirement of the assurance schemes (Lion Code and Red Tractor) that we perform a clinical investigation by visiting the farm, doing a postmortem, or analysing samples at the laboratory before medications are dispensed. These rules will now be extended to farms that are not under any assurance scheme.
We already offer a 24/7 poultry vet cover by having a local vet available 24/7 at all of our locations, and therefore there won’t be changes for our clients in that respect.
Are you worried about Gumboro Disease?
The Newbridge Scientific Laboratory at Sheriff Hutton (York) now offers PCR Gumboro testing in addition to Serology testing for Gumboro Disease.
The test can distinguish positive/negative samples. If the sample is positive, it will be able to identify the Gumboro vaccine strains that are in your vaccine. The test is able to identify all the vaccines that are used in the UK and therefore it is useful to demonstrate good vaccination on farms. It can also be used to find a field Gumboro virus if the disease is suspected.
Until now, all the samples were sent to Europe for Gumboro PCR testing. By having this service in the UK, we will be able to rapidly analyse samples and make the relevant vaccine changes before the next flock is placed.
Fig 1. FTA cards for collecting samples for Gumboro testing
The New Lion Code of Practice – Version 8– Reminder
The New Lion Code of Practice – Version 8 became effective in June 2023 but the audits for implementation will start this month (1st September 2023).
We have been busy dealing with client queries regarding the changes in biosecurity, restocking visits by a vet following AI, salmonella testing protocols, and veterinary health plan renewals. If you have any questions regarding the new Lion Code requirements, please contact us.
Avian Influenza H5N1
Avian Influenza remains a threat, with the last case of H5N1 reported in Ness, Isle of Lewis (Scotland) at the time of writing this Newsletter. Please, remain vigilant and call us if you suspect that your birds may be suffering from Avian Influenza. We will only be able to control the disease through early detection and eradication of infected birds.
Do you know someone who is dreaming of being a Vet?
Are you, or someone you know, dreaming about becoming a poultry vet, but are worried about the university costs?
If the answer is yes, we can help. We are offering an annual bursary of £1,500 per year of study to veterinary undergraduate students for the duration of their degree, typically 5 years. The total value of the bursary is £7,500. There are up to 15 new bursaries available each autumn.
To find out if you are eligible and how to apply, follow this link https://vetpartners.co.uk/student-sponsorship-form/
Exciting News!
At PHS, we have our own brand of nutraceutical products which can now be purchased on pallets for your convenience, this would be offered with free-of-charge delivery (subject to minimum orders). As the bird needs are ever-changing and increasing, our supplement range has been revamped to reflect and complement this. Our AgriCure range is only available through PHS and can’t be found through other vet practices or agricultural suppliers.
Find out more in our October newsletter!
Did you know?
Digiflock is offered exclusively by Poultry Health Services and is a free online system providing a home for all of your veterinary paperwork. You can complete submission forms on Digiflock before attending the practice. This negates the need for physical paperwork and ensures that all the relevant information is collected prior to attendance. Contact your local practice for more information.
Advertise with us for free
Do you have a vacancy? Or want to sell equipment? Are you struggling to recruit? In Spring 2022, we launched the new PHS ‘Classifieds’ section – an online space for advertising jobs, equipment, services, and more for the poultry and gamebird industry in the UK. Please contact your local PHS branch for more information or to send us your advert. This service is available for free to PHS clients and for a small fee to non-clients.
Social Media
Social media is a great way for us to keep you up to date with what’s going on at PHS. We also like to share the occasional funny post, so if you’re a scroller then look us up! You can find us on Facebook, Twitter (@Poultryvets), and LinkedIn.
Our new Promo code!