As part of the drive towards the October 31, 2018 deadline, where the Action Johne’s group is targeting 95% of UK dairy herds to have a Johne’s control plan in place and approved by their vet, the group is running eight CPD days across England, Scotland and Wales for Johne’s accredited vets.
More than 800 vets are now registered as BCVA Johne’s Accredited Veterinary Advisers. “Johne’s control is gaining momentum among producers and vets,” says Action Johne’s chairman and Gwent dairy producer Lyndon Edwards. “As a group, we need to support vets in their work.”
The one-day meetings, that start on 20th June in Cannock and run for 4 weeks, are supported by milk purchasers who are committed to controlling Johne’s in their supplying herds, and NML, who operate the leading Johne’s screening programme HerdWise.
The meeting programme will focus on the latest research into Johne’s control and an update on the recommended industry control strategies. Sessions will also demonstrate the commercial operation of a Johne’s advisory service within veterinary practices.
“We want to bring vets the latest cutting-edge science in Johne’s disease, and to update them on testing options, how to sell a Johne’s management package, and advice on engaging more producers,” adds Mr Edwards. “We want to see more producers, and vets, make Johne’s a priority and ensure everything is in place to make Phase II of the National Johne’s Management Plan (NJMP) a success.”
Keen to endorse this, Muller’s Lucy Squire adds: ‘’As key stakeholders in the NJMP we understand how important it is that our producer suppliers get the best advice possible and have the most suitable control plans in place, specific to their units.
“As a milk processor, we are looking for commitment from producers, but we understand the importance of them having their vet involved. These meetings will be an important means of informing and sharing information among vets.”
Rosie Cowie of Arla Foods agrees: ‘It’s great to see the industry coming together to back the NJMP. This training provides a great opportunity for vets to update their knowledge which ultimately helps engage our producers to meet the NJMP target and effectively manage Johne’s disease on their farms.”
The events are free to BCVA Accredited Johne’s Veterinary Advisors. Delegates are asked to register by calling NML on 01902 749920 or visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/training-for-bcva-johnes-accredited-veterinary-advisors-tickets-46363714117
