Gathering data takes time and executing these learnings takes even longer, so will today’s research projects help farmers in the nearby future?
Absolutely says Brendan Griffin, Farm Vet Consultant at Fenton Vets in Haverfordwest. To support tomorrow we must start researching and developing today.
Brendan’s day to day role involves working alongside local farmers to tackle the challenging problem of Bovine TB in the area. In addition to co-leading the Pembrokeshire project, a pro-active investigation into the deep-seated levels of infection in Pembrokeshire.
Brendan believes the combination of data analysis and social science is the solution to support farmers, their livestock and their businesses.
What do you find the most challenging part of your role as a Veterinary Manager in Wales?
Telling a farmer he has a reactor is the worst part of the job, there’s no two ways about it. Bovine TB has a catastrophic effect on farmers financially and emotionally and as Farm Vets we are their support network. Our role is to provide constructive advice and beneficial solutions and for this we need to continually research and develop in order to keep up and ideally get ahead of the changing world we live in.
What do you find the most rewarding aspect of your position?
Seeing farmers improve. From their livestock health to their business progress it’s fantastic to see. The more data-driven the industry gets, the easier this is to see and it’s very motivating for farmers and also us as vets for us to reap the rewards of our hard work.
How do you see the role of the Farm Vet in the ever-changing nature of the sector?
As Farm Vets we are becoming increasingly involved in our local farmers businesses. I see the role of the Farm Vet almost as a Consultant, utilising our skills and sharing them with farmers to effectively monitor their stock and optimise their productivity. Moving away from a traditional executionary role, I see the local Farm Vet as the farmers immediate touchpoint to improve and maintain top stockmanship, including both health and welfare.
What do you foresee the future of Bovine TB to look like?
Bovine TB is a constant threat to farmers within the Pembrokeshire area and consequently has negativity surrounding the topic as you would expect. However, The Pembrokeshire research project has been well received in the area, as a positive step to further investigate this disease from a different perspective. The project promotes local collaboration and the results to date show positive farmer engagement as a refreshing response to a sensitive topic.
If you were to give one piece of advice to an aspiring vet, what is it?
Being on farm and working at the coal face with Welsh farmers and their livestock is truly an honour. My one piece of advice to an aspiring vet is always to be relatable, put yourself in their shoes and treat them how you would like to be treated.
What inspires you to do more than just your role as a Veterinary Manager?
Doing things differently to how they have always been done and making a difference.
How do you unwind from working in veterinary?
I’m outside come rain or shine, work or play. From rugby coaching to renovating and cycling being outdoors is a big part of my life.
