Sheep farmer opinions on the current and future role of veterinarians in flock health management on sheep farms: a qualitative study.

摘要: A 2009 UK Government report on veterinary expertise in food animal production highlighted that there was insufficient herd health among veterinarians and lack of appropriate business models to deliver services the livestock sector. Approximately two thirds sheep farmers only contact their veterinarian for emergencies one fifth have all year round contact. The aim current study understand farmers’ perception, future role flock management using qualitative methodology. eligibility criteria were male with a size at least 200 adult sheep. Seven focus groups (n = 45) stratified by three regions age (≤50 >50) conducted. Thematic analysis discussions indicated most considered used as fire-fighter, whilst other advice gathered free charge when farm reasons (typically seeing cattle) or telephone. small group consultant proactively regular found this financially beneficial. Farmers key barriers inconsistent service, high turnover veterinarians, farming concern about independence advice. Although economics also mentioned barrier more proactively, did not know where they gained lost income from flock; heavy reliance single payment scheme (SPS) very few kept records which could investigate inefficiencies production. Overall complex each unique themselves experts manage flock. We conclude is an impasse: might need provide consistency wide beyond knowledge disease model how planning would be beneficial but until keep cannot rigorous financial benefits evaluated. Given SPS alternative require comply SPS. This lead being adopted faster rate so develop industry make it environmentally sustainable reducing waste low productivity.