Dyfed Farm Vets October Newsletter
Welcome to the October Newsletter!
As the leaves turn and the grazing season begins to wind down, we’re reflecting on a busy and eventful month here at Dyfed Farm Vets. From new faces and product launches to vital disease updates and heartfelt celebrations, there’s plenty to catch up on. Let’s dive into what’s been happening across our Carmarthen and St Clears branches.
Grass Staggers: Identification & Treatment
Grass staggers (hypomagnesaemia) remains a serious threat to grazing livestock, especially during periods of rapid grass growth in spring and autumn. It affects cattle, sheep, goats, and even deer, with older, lactating animals being most at risk.
Clinical signs range from nervousness and muscle tremors to seizures and sudden death. If you suspect hypomagnesaemia:
- Minimise stress
- Contact your vet immediately
- Administer magnesium if trained
- Seek veterinary intervention for seizuring animals
Prevention is key: magnesium supplementation, mineral licks, enriched water, buffer feeding, and soil testing are all effective strategies. With changing weather patterns, vigilance is more important than ever.
New Product Alert: FerAppease®
We’re excited to introduce FerAppease®, a topical pheromone-based product designed to reduce stress in cattle during key management events such as weaning, transport, castration, dehorning, and housing. Its active ingredient mimics the Maternal Bovine Appeasing Substance (MBAS), naturally secreted by cows to calm their calves.
Applied to the poll and muzzle, FerAppease desensitises stress centres in the brain, helping cattle feel safer and more settled. Effects last up to 14 days, making it ideal for short-term stress periods. Benefits include:
- Reduced cortisol levels
- Improved feed intake and weight gain
- Lower incidence of respiratory disease
Get in touch with one of our vets to place an order or learn more.
Bluetongue Virus Update
As of 8th October, there have been 95 confirmed cases of Bluetongue Virus (BTV-3) in the UK this season—91 in England and 4 in Wales.
Despite cooler temperatures, midge activity remains a concern. Bluetongue poses serious reproductive risks:
- Up to 2 months gestation: absorption or abortion
- 2–5 months: birth of “dummy calves” with deformities
- Up to 6 months: compromised pregnancy and herd productivity
Vaccination is the best defence. Cattle require two doses, three weeks apart, so speak to us about a tailored strategy for your herd.
Welcome Emma!
We’re thrilled to welcome Emma, who joined us in September after graduating from the pioneer class of Harper and Keele Veterinary School. Originally from a spring-calving dairy farm in the Midlands of Ireland, Emma brings a passion for dairy and youngstock medicine. Outside of work, she enjoys horse riding, countryside walks, and watching rugby. We’re delighted to have her on board!
Celebrating 35 Years: Thank You, Nerys!
This month marks a special milestone as we celebrate Nerys, who has been the welcoming face and voice of our St Clears branch for an incredible 35 years. Starting her journey with Michell and Morgan in 1990, Nerys has been a constant source of warmth, dedication, and office banter through every chapter of our evolution.
Thank you, Nerys, for your unwavering commitment and the positive impact you’ve had on colleagues and clients alike.
Dates for the Diary
- Welsh Dairy Show – 28th October at Carmarthen Showground
- Client Christmas Drinks – 11th December – Location TBC
- Plus: keep an eye out for upcoming markets, shows, and Flock & Beef Club events!
From all of us at Dyfed Farm Vets, thank you for your continued support. Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need us.
