WIREDGOV

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Professor Christianne Glossop, has reminded farmers that cattle need to have had a clear TB test no more than 60 days before they can be moved for summer grazing.

The rule applies to all cattle being moved to any land that is not registered as part of the keeper’s CPH or included within an Interim Land Association Management (ILAM) agreement.

Cattle will also need a clear test before they can return to the main holding in the autumn. This means that there must be appropriate handling facilities on the test premises.

Professor Glossop said:

“In line with our ongoing TB testing regime herd keepers planning to move their cattle to summer grazing must remember that they will need to have undertaken a clear Pre Movement TB Test first. They must also remember that the animals will need to have a clear test before they can be moved off this land in the autumn.

“A failed TB test at the summer grazing premises will result in the animals being placed under movement restrictions and being unable to return home or moved elsewhere.”

Carmarthen Regional TB Eradication Delivery Board Chair, John Owen, said:

“Herd keepers planning to move cattle to summer grazing this year should consider how Pre Movement Testing rules will affect those plans.  They will need to put arrangements in place to ensure that they have appropriate handling facilities in place and will also be able to test the cattle at the end of the summer.”

For more details, farmers should speak to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), or their private vet.