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New research project aims to use AI to identify sick livestock
The study will combine artificial intelligence with behavioural analytics to provide insight into animal health.

'Cutting-edge' technology to reduce environmental impact of farming

New research which will use artificial intelligence to help improve the welfare of livestock and provide cost savings for farmers across the UK has been launched.

The research will be led by AI firm Quant Foundry, the University of Bristol Vet School and Agri-EPI Centre. The project will use novel artificial intelligence methods and behavioural analytics to provide fast, reliable insights into animal health for UK farmers.

The collaborative team aims to produce a new cost-effective solution for farmers and veterinary professionals to identify illness in livestock. Helping to provide cost savings and reduce the environmental impact of farming.

Dr Chris Cormack, managing director at Quant Foundry, said: "In conjunction with our research partners, Bristol Veterinary School and Agri-EPI, the study of behavioural analytics in animals will open up a new era in artificial intelligence driven solutions for farmers.

“We have great hopes that not only can we help farmers provide improved care for their livestock but also help reduce their economic costs and their environmental impact."

Professor Andrew Dowsey, chair in Population Health Data Science at Bristol Veterinary School, added: "This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity to translate cutting-edge artificial intelligence approaches to build upon the UK’s high standards in cattle welfare and support farmers in our targets for net-zero emissions."

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.