New, free online health and welfare resource

farm-health-online-screengrab

Sustainable food and farming organisation A Greener World, based in America, has launched Farm Health Online, an interactive website to help British farmers improve the health and well-being of their animals.

Working in partnership with Duchy College Rural Business School, the fully referenced website features user-friendly information on more than 100 common livestock diseases, including symptoms, prevention and treatment.

It also gives them immediate access to science-based advice on positive livestock management and sustainable farming practices, all for free.

While online advice can never replace support from a qualified vet, all content is based on latest agricultural research, is fully referenced and has been reviewed by vets.

Members’ involvement

Some Pasture for Life members were invited to preview the beef and lamb sections and provided useful feedback for the website developers.

Anna Heaton, PFLA director and chair of the Standards and Certification committees was at the launch.

anna-bassett

“PFLA members range from small scale mixed farms and micro dairies to larger scale beef, sheep and dairy operations – with new entrants as well as long standing farming families with vast livestock handling experience,” said Anna.

“This new website offers a valuable reference point on animal health and welfare for all types of farmers, either giving quick answers to routine problems in the field, through to more in-depth assessments and research for those who want more details.”

Phil Stocker, chief executive of the National Sheep Association said he would encourage all livestock farmers to take a look at Farm Health Online and make use of the substantial information it contains.

“The website is relevant to any farmers who are keen to manage the health of their animals in a sustainable and responsible way – which is crucial to ensure the ongoing efficacy of veterinary products. This will also help reduced costs and is valuable in securing consumer confidence in their products.”

From the Soil Association, head of farming Liz Bowles believes Farm Health Online will become a great source of information for many farmers, including those who farm organically. This is because it in includes information about all the diseases, but does not assume a certain course of treatment will apply.

“As a farmer myself, I will be using the site for more information on the diseases that could affect my flock.”

Check out Farm Health Online for yourself.

View all articles for farmers