SRUC

Health Scheme Members' Blog

PCHS Member Profile: Hamish & Margaret Sclater, Deveron Aberdeen-Angus

For over 30 years, Hamish and Margaret Sclater have built the Deveron Aberdeen-Angus Herd into one of the breed’s most respected names, combining outstanding pedigree performance with a strong commitment to herd health. As they prepare for retirement and the herd’s dispersal, their story highlights how dedication to health accreditation, careful breeding decisions and a focus on quality have created a lasting legacy in the Aberdeen-Angus industry.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 15/07/2026
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PSGHS: Could earlier testing save you stress?

Could earlier testing save you stress next time you need to do your PSGHS testing? Moving your routine MV/CAE test to the quieter months after autumn sales can reduce the risk of accreditation issues affecting summer shows and sales.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 15/07/2026
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Woodburn Poll Dorsets

Set in 200 acres of upland pasture on the southern edge of Exmoor, Woodburn Farm is a family-run enterprise that blends pedigree sheep breeding with ambitious environmental stewardship. Though the farm has evolved significantly over the years, its core remains the same: a commitment to healthy animals and sustainable farming.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 24/02/2026
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Beef Calf Viability: The Importance of Checking the Suck Reflex

Good neonatal viability is essential to ensure calves rapidly ingest and absorb colostrum. Many early-life losses in suckled calves are linked, directly or indirectly, to hypogammaglobulinaemia (low levels of immunoglobulins).…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 18/02/2026
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Why You Should Be Measuring Ewe Colostrum Quality

Most sheep farmers recognise the vital role colostrum plays in lamb survival. What’s discussed far less often is how to measure its quality—and whether doing so is even practical in a busy lambing shed. Recent work carried out across commercial flocks shows that yes, it absolutely can be measured, and the results are well worth paying attention to.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 13/02/2026
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Supporting HiHealth Members Following Biobest Laboratory Closure

Following the closure of Biobest Laboratories, we understand this is an uncertain time for farmers and veterinary practices involved in the Biobest HiHealth Scheme. SRUC’s Premium Cattle Health Scheme (PCHS) is working closely with Biobest to support members who wish to transfer and continue their herd health accreditation with as little disruption as possible.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 02/02/2026
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Langstone Mill Farm: Focused on Flock Health and Breeding Excellence

Langstone Mill Farm is a family-run, MV-accredited pedigree Charollais flock focused on breeding for growth, conformation, and health while maintaining strict biosecurity measures. Their commitment to disease prevention and genetic progress ensures high-quality rams and finished lambs for the UK market.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 09/01/2026
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Managing Winter Challenges

Advice from SRUC Veterinary Services on managing the challenges posed by the weather at this time of year. A series of useful tips and suggestions for cattle and sheep farmers.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 07/01/2026
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Ovine Keratoconjunctivitis

This article by Veterinary Investigation Officer Heather Stevenson details the symptons and management of Ovine Keratoconjunctivtis or "pink eye".…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 05/12/2025
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PSGHS Rules for Adding Animals into an MV/CAE Accredited Flock or Herd

An important reminder to PSGHS members on the requirements for testing and isolation when adding animals to a MV or CAE accredited flock or herd.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 03/11/2025
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Herd Health at the Heart of Success for the Award Winning Anside Herd

The Irvine family from Drummuir, Banffshire, have built one of the UK’s most successful pedigree Limousin herds — and they credit herd health as the cornerstone of their success.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 24/10/2025
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CHECS Rules for Shows, Sales, and Off-Farm Movements

A reminder to our PCHS members about the CHECS rules for moving cattle to and from, shows, sales and other off-farm movements.…

  • SRUC Veterinary Services
  • 24/10/2025
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