A new standardised way to measure the amount of antibiotics used on-farm have been announced by the Sheep Antibiotic Guardian Group (SAGG), a sub-group of the Sheep Health and Welfare Group (SHAWG). SAGG has worked closely with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, academics and vets to identify these measures, and is now urging all those who work in the sheep sector to support farmers in capturing the information. The document outlining the measures and how they should be recorded sits alongside new guidelines on responsible use of antibiotics in the sheep sector. More information at www.shawg.org.uk.

The cattle sectors are also moving forward in this area, with the Cattle Health and Welfare Group (CHAWG) releasing metrics for the dairy sector at the end of last year. Measuring use on beef farms in more complex, and so the beef sector has just released a consultation to determine which measures will be the most appropriate and practical. It is hoping all those who work in the beef sector, whether farmers and vets or suppliers and supply chain, will respond by the 23 August deadline. More information and support materials at www.chawg.org.uk.