Test service bulls for TB this mating season

Media release

16 September 2011

Test service bulls for TB this mating season

The TBfree southern South Island committees are reminding dairy herdowners to have their service bulls tested for bovine tuberculosis (TB) before moving them onto the farm this mating season.

There is no charge for stock traders or herdowners to test bulls aged over 12 months, which are intended for mating in the dairy sector.

Chairman of the TBfree Southland Committee, Mike O'Brien, is urging farmers and sharemilkers leasing or buying service bulls to remain vigilant. He strongly urges them to insist on a TB test to safeguard their herd from the disease.

"Testing service bulls could end up saving herdowners time and money. It also provides them with an assurance that any bulls being brought into their herd are free of bovine TB," said Mr O'Brien.

All livestock being moved must be accompanied by a correctly completed Animal Status Declaration form and be identified with the approved ear tags. Those with doubts or questions over livestock being brought into their herd should also check the disease status of the animals by calling the Animal Health Board on 0800 482 4636.

"We must still be mindful that while a majority of TB herd breakdowns are related to TB-infected wild animals, mainly possums, the risk of infection through stock movements still exist.

"Testing service bulls helps to alleviate this risk for dairy herdowners. But it is vital that all herdowners remember to assess the threat of TB to their herds to protect their businesses and lifestyles from the affects of the disease," said Mr O'Brien.

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