VETS in South Lakeland are backing a new campaign to help cut down on animal disease.

Westmorland Veterinary Group, based at Kendal and Kirkby Lonsdale, is supporting the National Infectious Disease Check campaign subsidised by animal health company, Intervet/Schering-Plough.

The scheme, running throughout spring, targets all farmers with cattle and encourages them to undertake screening to establish whether or not their animals are infected with three of the most commonly seen diseases that affect cattle.

The diseases - BVD, Leptospirosis and IBR - affect around half of all UK beef and dairy herds and have a dramatic impact productivity and animal welfare.

The check gives farmers two free testing options - DairyCheck and BeefCheck. These tests are quick and easy to do and results will show whether or not a herd is affected.

Ben Sapsford, farm animal vet at Kirkby Lonsdale, said: "It is very important to know the disease status of your herd. Addressing and underlying problem with one of these diseases can significantly improve herd performance including fertility and milk production".

For more information contact the surgeries at Kendal, on 01539 722692, and Kirkby Lonsdale, on 015242 71221.