Veterinary surveillance blogs
Practical Pointers When Investigating Abortions in Cattle and Sheep
Abortion investigations in cattle and sheep can be frustrating, time-pressured, and often unrewarding if the wrong samples are collected — or none at all. When whole foetuses and placentas cannot be submitted, targeted sampling can still provide strong diagnostic value. Here is a practical guide to help maximise diagnostic yield while managing client expectations and lab workflow.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 30/01/2026
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Low Energy Silage in 2025: What It Means for Herd and Flock Performance
Results from over 1,000 new-season silage samples across Scotland are highlighting a significant nutritional challenge for the year ahead. Data compiled by SAC Consulting from 1,022 silage submissions in 2025 shows a widespread reduction in metabolisable energy (ME), with important implications for both cattle and sheep enterprises.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 30/01/2026
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Look Out for Rickets in 2026
As we move into the early months of the year, it’s important to keep an eye out for rickets in lambs and hoggs. This condition, while not new, can catch flocks off guard—especially under certain management and nutritional circumstances.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 07/01/2026
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Safe Sample Packaging: A Reminder for Veterinary Practices
A reminder to our cutomers on the correct packaging procedures for samples being submitted to us for testing.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 26/11/2025
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Long Bone Deformity: Now Is the Time to Act
Our vets saw several cases of Long Bone Deformity (LBD) this calving season. Read more about the disease and how it can be prevented with practical tips from our Dumfries team.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 16/10/2025
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How Midge Trapping is Helping Scotland to Stay Ahead of Disease Risks
Read about the work being done by EPIC to track midge activity in order to help vets and livestock keepers to predict high risk periods for midge transmitted diseases such as Schmallenberg Virus and Bluetongue Virus.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 14/10/2025
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Watch Your Hedges and Ditches: The Hidden Danger of Hemlock
A reminder to vets and livestock keepers to be vigilant for the signs of hemlock poisoning.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 19/09/2025
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New Dairy BVD Negative Programme Launching October 2025
An update on the new CHeCS Dairy BVD Negative programme.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 19/09/2025
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Safeguarding Flocks from EAE: Why Vigilance and Accreditation Matter
A reminder of the risks of EAE and how to prevent introducing it to your flock.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 19/09/2025
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Increased Risk of Perennial Ryegrass Staggers this Autumn
There is an increased risk of perennial rygrass staggers this Aurumn as a result of fungal growth.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 17/09/2025
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Employee Profile: Jess Donald, Post Mortem Support Officer
Meet Jess Donald, a dedicated member of our team at the St Boswells Disease Surveillance Centre. At just 21 years old, Jess joined us in April 2025 as a Post Mortem Support Officer (PMSO), bringing with her a passion for animal science and rural life.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 29/08/2025
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Protecting Flocks and Profits: The Vital Role of HISHA in EAE Prevention
When it comes to sheep farming in the Highlands and Islands, flock health is important. That’s why the Highlands and Islands Sheep Health Association (HISHA) plays such a vital role—providing farmers with EAE-accredited sheep to ensure they can buy top-quality, disease-free replacements with confidence.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 05/08/2025
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