Published at 21:43, Wednesday, 21 July 2010

NFU Scotland has met key stakeholders to discuss the threat posed to the health of Scotland’s farm animals by working and pet dogs being exercised in the countryside.

The disease Neospora is spread through the faeces of infected dogs

The meeting was attended by NFUS, Scottish Rural Property Business Association, Quality Meat Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Moredun Research Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and representatives from Scottish Borders council.

Of key concern is the rise in abortions in cattle from the disease Neospora, which is spread through the faeces of infected dogs. Dogs initially become infected by eating contaminated livestock material such as placentas from newly-calved cows. The highest percentage of all cattle abortions reported in the UK is attributed to Neospora.

There is a worrying increase in the incidence of Sarcocystosis in cattle and sheep. The parasite responsible for this disease, which can cause illness and death, is similarly spread through dog faeces contaminating pasture. Vets from Edinburgh’s Royal Dick Vet School have investigated a number of deaths in ewes from Sarcocystosis.

To counteract the growing health threats to cattle and sheep the union is looking to improve communications to farmers and the public who exercise dogs on farmland.

NFUS vice-president and vet, Nigel Miller, said: “Dogs, whether working farm collies, or pets, whose owners are walking on grazing land, are presenting a growing threat to the well-being of farm animals.

“Those walking or working with dogs in the country need to recognise the danger their animals may pose and collect and dispose of all faeces.

“On farms where disease problems have been identified, attempts to control these diseases can be hindered by public access and dog-walking activity. Efforts to reduce the faecal contamination of pasture by dogs are crucial.”

Mr Miller said warnings on posters put up on farmland where dog-walking was popular could be a way for local authorities and organisations such as Paths for All and local access forums to raise awareness.

He said: “Farmers must play their part. Because of its role in the diseases, all fallen stock should be disposed of promptly and, if practical, placental material should be collected when cows are calving outside to minimise the risk of it being eaten by dogs. Failure to do these simple tasks can perpetuate the life cycle of the parasites responsible.

“To help farmers we have pledged to produce a briefing note highlighting the risks dogs can pose to livestock health and what measures can be taken on farm to minimise the threat of infection. The vets at the meeting have also agreed to write a similar briefing for the veterinary industry.”

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