Organic farming

In this section you can find out more about issues relating to organic farming that may be of interest to members of the British Veterinary Association.

Background

There can be confusion about the treatments that can be given to the animals on Organic Farms. In addition, diseases can occur that have not been commonly seen on farms for many years, due to the use of prophylactic treatments and developments in husbandry. These issues may be of concern to vets due to their impact on the welfare of the animals.

Legislation

Defra has produced a guidance document outlining the new framework of EU organic standards that came into effect on 1 January 2009.
Articles 23 and 24 of the Commission Regulation (EC) 889/2008 are concerned with disease control and veterinary treatment on organic farms.

Guidance

The Compendium of Animal Health & Welfare in Organic Farming was produced as part of a Defra Funded Project by Duchy College, Cornwall, the University of Reading and the University of Glasgow. The Veterinary Management section provides information on subjects such as: Zoonoses, Medicines, Vaccinations and Alternative Treatments.

The Soil Association have produced a briefing document titled Information for vets: an introduction to animal health under organic standards. The document gives guidance on alternative treatments for specific ailments.