Welsh officials outline vaccination plans
Welsh officials have announced that the vaccination plan to try and curb the spread of bovine tuberculosis in badgers has been decided along with help from the National Trust.
The Welsh Government announced in March it would be dropping its plans for a targeted cull and would opt for a vaccination policy instead. Welsh environment minister John Griffiths outlined the plans this month, announcing it will vaccinate badgers on National Trust land, as well as within the Intensive Action Area around North Pembrokeshire.
He commented: "The National Trust is obviously a substantial land owner within Wales, and joint working with them is great news for our efforts to tackle bTB. We have already begun vaccinating in the IAA. At the last count we had vaccinated more than 430 badgers and the programme will continue well into the autumn.”
Mr Griffiths continued: “I am pleased that, since the decision to vaccinate was made, we have been able to take such speedy action to tackle bTB in wildlife within the IAA. However, I have always been clear that I also want to explore other areas of Wales where vaccination of badgers could be helpful."
The National Trust owns 45,000 hectares in Wales, including 200 tenanted farms. Welsh Government and trust officials have scheduled their first meeting to discuss vaccination for September 2012.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
