We use SRUC or Biobest for disease accreditation testing for BVD virus, Johne’s disease, IBR, Leptospira Hardjo and Neospora. Herds can test for any combination of these diseases and have their herd’s TB status accredited.

Why should I test through a cattle health scheme?

• Access discounted rates for testing.
• Keep all of your herd’s results together to gain certification to demonstrate to others the health status of your herd.
• Reduced frequency of TB testing for herds in the High Risk Area. Keepers whose herds are accredited under a CHeCS approved TB scheme can be rewarded for their commitment to managing their TB risks. The government will allow herds accredited at CHeCS TB score 1 and above to undergo annual, rather than six- monthly, herd testing.

Herd health status is becoming increasingly important for a number of reasons

• Helps improve herd efficiency and profitability through controlling infectious diseases and by preventing their entry.
• There is an increasing demand for breeding cattle from herds shown to be free of certain infectious diseases.
• The cattle industry is increasing the drive to improve the health status of herds in this country. Many European countries have already eradicated BVD virus and some also IBR virus.
• A number of breed societies require their members to be testing for certain diseases through a CHeCS cattle health scheme.
• Most milk processors now require their suppliers to have a control plan in place for Johne’s disease. Health scheme programmes provide a structured way to achieve better control of this disease.