Bluetongue
Bluetongue is a notifiable animal disease. If suspected, farmers must report it immediately on 03000 200 301 (England) and 0300 303 8268 (Wales).
- Current Defra information on cases, zones and guidance
- BTV hotline 024 7771 0386
- Government guidance on preventing and stopping the spread of Bluetongue
- Ruminant Health & Welfare and the NFU website contain practical and up to date information for farmers
- Up to date information about BTV3 vaccination
Inspection of businesses that deal with live animals
To ensure that premises are suitable and standards of care for the animals are met, businesses are routinely inspected by local vets or one of our inspection officers.
The minimum standard of conditions are as below:
- Animals are adequately exercised
- Animals are adequately supplied with suitable food, drink, and bedding material
- Appropriate steps will be taken for the protection of the animals in the case of fire or other emergency
- Accommodation is suitable in terms of size, construction, temperature, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness
- All reasonable precautions are taken to prevent and control the spread of infectious or contagious diseases among animals
Movement of animals
In order to control the spread of disease, such as Foot and Mouth, a general licence is needed for the movement of animals. The most common animal movements include:
- Pigs
- Deer
- Cattle
- Goats
- Sheep
The conditions of movement vary according to the type of animals, destination, and the type of trip. It also ensures animal welfare, such as being properly fed and watered, are not overcrowded, are fit to travel, and vehicles that are suitable to transport them in.
These conditions are constantly being altered and so it is vital that you make yourself aware of the latest conditions when applying for a movement licence.
See conditions and apply for a General Licence for the movement of cattle, pigs, sheep, goats and deer.
Importation of animals
There are number of strict regulations to follow whether you are importing animals or pets into the UK or into an overseas country.
Quarantine regulations are in force in the UK and it is illegal to disobey them. Failure to comply could result in the animal in quarantine, re-exported or destroyed, and it's owner prosecuted.
Further advice on importation of animals is available from Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
Stray and illegally kept horses and ponies
For concerns about the welfare of horses please contact World Horse Welfare.
- General concerns: 0800 048 0180
- Emergencies: 0300 333 6000