The British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA) has launched a brand new training course on Integrated Parasite Management (IPM). Devised by COWS steering group member and cattle vet Rob Howe, the course is supported by COWS.
"Parasites are an unavoidable reality of livestock farming, but the way they are managed is due a rethink," says Rob.
"Best practice advice is changing and this new course is at the forefront of this change. We shall invite farm vets and SQPs to revise the 'blanket treatment' methodology and embrace a smarter, more ecologically grounded approach to parasite management.
"By working with the natural systems already present on farms, attendees will discover how to reduce and mitigate parasite risk, protect long-term efficiency of critical anthelmintics and build genuinely resilient livestock systems.
"The benefits ripple outwards in every direction: healthier, more productive animals; farmers who see vets and SQPs as indispensable strategic partners rather than a presciption service; more touch points with clients/customers and stock otherwise largely invisibale over the summer months; potential savings in time, product and money for the client/customer, and new revenue streams for vet and retail businesses.
"This programme gives knowledge, tools and the confidence to make this all happen."
Two options
There is a one-day course offering a high level overview and a two-day, fully immersive course for those wishing to delve deeper.
The one-day course is ideal for vets and SQPs looking to build their confidence in IPM and understand how it differs from conventional approaches.
The two-day course is designed for those ready to take IPM knowledge further. It brings together multiple expert speakers and on-farm learning including an evening meal and bat safari.
The first meeting will be at Torpenhow Farm in Cumbria - 11 May for the one-day course and 13 and 14 May for the two-day course.
The second meeting will be at Yeo Valley in Somerset - on the 18 May for the one day course and 20 and 21 May for the two-day course.
The one-day course for BCVA members and registered SQPS will cost £510 and for the two-day applied course £875.
Vets and SQPs that would like to attend one of these inaugural courses (places are limited to 15 delegates), can find an application form on the BVCA website https://www.bcva.org.uk/cpd/integrated-parasite-management