Legal Issues and Johne’s Disease

Johne’s disease can easily trigger a legal claim against the vet. Pete Orpin was involved in an expert witness case involving the purchase of a group of heifers. The case hung on what the farmers said to each other.

The vets became involved, also based on the strength of their health plans and risk assessments.

What is clear is that it is essential to ensure that your risk assessments and control plans are reviewed regularly to make sure you can fully demonstrate the risks and responsibilities that the farmers must manage to control the disease. An out of date plan does not look good especially if you have signed a declaration to state that you have reviewed the plan!

The Myhealthyherd risk assessments are now stored within the system and date stamped. Any control plan will be stored within your document folder. This winter is a good time to update your plans!