Elanco Animal Health is inviting sheep farmers, vets and SQPs to join its summer Access to Knowledge (A2K) event on Tuesday, July 5, at 12pm.

The company said that the virtual event will provide an opportunity to learn more about the new Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, while also looking at practical ways to boost productivity in sheep enterprises, with a particular emphasis on parasite control.

“The sheep industry is going through a major period of change due to significant farming reform and this is going to bring some challenges,” said Elanco vet Matt Colston.

“Maximising health, welfare and production efficiency has therefore never been more important to build business resilience, and this will be the core focus of our A2K event.”

Elanco said A2K will provide an interactive opportunity for learning and development, with some leading figures within the sheep sector set to offer insight, advice, and practical experience.

“Speakers will offer an introduction to the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway itself, insights into what the industry knows so far, and how all parties can make the most of funded vet time on-farm,” says Mr Colston.

“Shepherd, Ernie Richards joins the speaker line-up and will offer his experience of a close working relationship with his vet, looking specifically at the development of a sustainable worming programme.”

There will also be plenty of opportunity for delegates to put questions to the panel, with two live Q&A sessions during the event.

The full speaker line up is:

• Kevin Harrison, SCOPS chair and farmer – Introduction to the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway – opportunities that lie ahead for sheep farmers and the wider industry;
• Rebecca Mearns, Sheep Vet Society president – Animal Health and Welfare Pathway – what we know so far;
• Fiona Lovatt, Sheep veterinary consultant – Making the most of veterinary time on farm;
• Live Q&A with Rebecca and Fiona;
• Ernie Richards, Powys-based shepherd – Moving from routine treatment to sustainable practices;
• Matt Blyth, livestock adviser – Essential measurements for improving productivity; and
• Live Q&A with all speakers.

SQPs participating in the session will also receive AMTRA CPD points.

Registrations for the event are now open and farmers, vets and SQPs can sign up to join as well as enter for the chance to win a summer hamper. Click HERE to register.