Animal Welfare

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

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

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

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

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

How Easter Howgate Turned Their Herd Around with Premium Cattle Health Scheme Support

Read about how SRUC's Easter Howgate Farm are tackling their Johne's disease challenges with the help of the Premium Cattle Health Scheme.…

SRUC Veterinary Services
19/09/2025