Due to the current UK bird flu outbreak we will be asking any chicken owners who wish to book an appointment some general screening questions. If we suspect that your chicken may be suffering from bird flu we will direct you to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) via Defra Rural Services Helpline 03000 200 301 to speak to an APHA vet.
On arrival we will ask bird owners to call from their car or pop into reception to let us know they have arrived and your vet will come out to you. Your vet will then assess if it is safe for your bird to enter the practice or will conduct a car-park consult.
The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone housing measures for poultry and captive birds in England and Wales have now been lifted but the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone mandatory biosecurity measures remain in place across GB.
Housing measures will still apply if a premises is within a Protection Zone or Captive Bird (Monitoring) Control Zone.
Ensure the enhanced mandatory biosecurity guidance is followed as the risk of avian influenza continues. More information is available on GOV.UK.
Do not touch or pick up a dead or visibly sick wild bird
Dead wild birds need to be reported to Defra if, 1 or more dead birds or prey, 3 or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese, and ducks) or 5 or more dead birds of any species.
Wild sick or injured birds should be reported to the RSCPA on 0300 1234 999.
If you see a dead or visibly sick wild bird on public land do not touch or pick it up – report it to the local authority who are responsible for disposal.
If you find a dead bird within your home, you can dispose of them in your household waste – wear disposable gloves and avoid touching the bird, a plastic bag should be used.
For more information visit the government website.
Any keepers of backyard flocks and any other types of poultry, and wildlife rehabilitators are advised to sign up to the APHA’s animal disease alert subscription service to receive immediate notification of new cases and updated zones.
Call us on 01435 864422 if you would like to book an appointment for your bird or have any questions about our avian flu protocols.
