Animal Health
Animal Health and Welfare
In livestock farming, the health and welfare of farm animals is essential to the continuing success of the industry.
Trading Standards is responsible for carrying out the Council's wide-ranging responsibilities under animal health and welfare legislation, the principle functions of which are to prevent the introduction and control the spread of contagious diseases, and the protection of the welfare of animals and birds during transit and at markets. Some diseases, for example anthrax, rabies and tuberculosis, may constitute a risk to human health.
Our specialists in animal health legislation are based at Melrose, and visit farms and markets throughout the area to ensure compliance with the legislation.
You can see our self-help advice sheets on Animal Health , or you can contact us to order hard copy leaflets.
Feeding Stuffs
Agriculture is a pillar of the economy of the Scottish Borders, with a reputation for the production of high quality livestock and livestock products. Recent food scares have however placed the spotlight upon the quality of Feeding Stuffs employed throughout livestock production systems.
Trading Standards has the authority to act in relation to Feeding Stuffs under the following legislation:
- Agriculture Act 1970 - Details the basic requirements for the control of animal and pet feeds, sets out the enforcement obligations on Local Authorities and the details of product information to be provided by traders.
- The Feeding Stuffs (Scotland) Regulations 2000 - Describes the information to be given with specified feeds and how and when it should be given. Details the control of additives. Lists undesirable substances that may be found in feeding stuffs e.g. rye ergot and aflatoxin.
- The Feeding Stuffs (Sampling and Analysis) Regulations 1999.
- The Feeding Stuffs (Establishments and Intermediaries) Regulations 1999 - Ensures that premixtures, additives and feeding stuffs that contain them are produced, stored and distributed under controlled conditions that enhance feed quality and promote human and animal safety throughout the food chain.
- The Feeding Stuffs (Enforcement) Regulations 1999 - Concerned with the regulation of imported feeding stuffs at ports and places of entry.
Trading Standards maintains a register of Feeding Stuffs Establishments and Intermediaries within the Borders and carries out inspections of these premises to ensure compliance with the terms of the regulations.
The Regulations require that any businesses manufacturing, selling or using animal feed additives (e.g. vitamins and trace elements) be approved or registered with us. Many farmers who produce or mix their own feeds will also require registration.
Contact us with any further enquiries about Feeding Stuffs registration/approval.
Unified Solutions.