Veterinary Services

• Polydactyly investigated in new-born Belgian Blue cross Holstein calves
• Incidence of fasciolosis in cattle remains high
• Twelve outbreaks of fasciolosis recorded in Scottish flocks
• Haemonchosis diagnosed in four Dumfriesshire flocks
• Only six outbreaks of systemic pasteurellosis recorded, compared with 30 during October 2006
• Mixed enteric infections cause wasting and scour in pigs aged nine to 10-weeks-old on two unrelated units

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

The weather was drier than normal with above average temperatures. The sunshine was generally well above average but close to or below average across the western and northern isles. Foot and mouth disease restrictions were progressively relaxed but poor market prices continued to cause considerable concern. The Scottish Government announced a £25Million aid package for the farm livestock sector. Sheep farmers were the principal beneficiary through a £6-a-head payment for breeding ewes and cancellation of the second instalment of charges for sheep dip disposal. Also the Scottish Government launched a scheme to handle around 250,000 light lambs. The carcases will be rendered or incinerated.