I read somewhere fairly recently that once equine passports are introduced for everyone the government is also introducing strange new powers regarding equine health.
As I understand it, in cases of certain equine illnesses (West Nile Disease and a couple of others) the government will be able to slaughter horses suspected to be infected or "susceptible", whatever that means. Owners would have the right to appeal after slaughter. Passports would make the tracing of suspect horses possible.
Does this mean that if my horse was anywhere near the outbreak of one of these diseases and therefore "susceptible" to infection that someone would be able to shoot him without me having any say in it? Or have I got this wrong? The passport system will also mean you have to present your horse's passport to a vet before treatment for anything can be prescribed.
Don't like the sound of these new powers. Does anyone have any clearer information, or any idea where I could find out more?
Thanks.
As I understand it, in cases of certain equine illnesses (West Nile Disease and a couple of others) the government will be able to slaughter horses suspected to be infected or "susceptible", whatever that means. Owners would have the right to appeal after slaughter. Passports would make the tracing of suspect horses possible.
Does this mean that if my horse was anywhere near the outbreak of one of these diseases and therefore "susceptible" to infection that someone would be able to shoot him without me having any say in it? Or have I got this wrong? The passport system will also mean you have to present your horse's passport to a vet before treatment for anything can be prescribed.
Don't like the sound of these new powers. Does anyone have any clearer information, or any idea where I could find out more?
Thanks.