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Weather warning for Welsh farmers
Welsh farmers issued a reminder of their legal responsibilities

After parts of Wales suffered up to a foot of snow last week, the Welsh government has issued farmers a reminder of their responsibilities to livestock in severe weather.

Environment minister John Griffiths said: “Farmers need to take reasonable arrangements to protect welfare and prevent suffering where livestock might be at risk during severe weather.

"Animals kept outside must have access to dry-lying areas.

Farmers should ensure livestock is protected from the severe weather and that food and water is available.

"Farmers will be best placed to identify and source feed and water for their animals in times of difficulty, for example by co-operating with neighbours if supplies run short or access is difficult.”

Christianne Glossop, the chief veterinary officer for Wales also reminded farmers of the legal requirements regarding animals being transported in severe weather. She said: "Transporters are required by law not to transport animals in a way that is likely to cause injury or undue suffering.

"So, in the current conditions transporters must check their intended route is safe and clear before any journey commences.”

Further advice on looking after livestock, as well as horses, ponies and pets during bad weather is available on the Welsh Government website.

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Voting opens for BEVA Council

News Story 1
 Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.

There are five candidates standing for four available places on Council. They are:

  • Alexandre Triguino
  • Angela Jones
  • Beth Bryant
  • Holly Rees
  • Hugh Somerville
Full profiles for each candidate can be found on the BEVA website

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Government releases latest bluetongue statistics

APHA has confirmed the number of bluetongue cases that have been logged in the UK since 1 July 2026.

The total number of BTV-3 cases, as of 6 August, is 187. This includes 183 cases in England and four cases in Wales.

There have been no recorded cases in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The location of premises in Great Britain where at least one animal has tested positive by PCR for BTV-3, BTV-8 or BTV-12 is available on the bluetongue case map. All livestock keepers in Great Britain are urged to familiar themselves with nation-specific bluetongue control policies.

Bluetongue virus is a notifiable disease. It is a legal requirement that any suspicions, even if livestock has been vaccinated, are reported immediately.