The Rural Vet Clinic

24/08/2026

We are holding four local Bluetongue update meetings across Dumfries & Galloway this week. With the BTV-3 situation continuing to develop and a Temporary Control Zone now in place, we will share the latest information, explain what it means for your business, outline what we are pressing for and answer questions from attendees.

Meetings will take place at:

• Monday 24 August, 7pm – Cressfield Hotel, Ecclefechan
• Tuesday 25 August, 7pm – Dumfries Auction Mart
• Wednesday 26 August, 7pm – Wallets Mart, Castle Douglas
• Thursday 27 August, 7pm – Wigtownshire Rugby Club

All farmers and crofters in the area are welcome, whether NFU Scotland members or not. There is no need to book, and non-members can find out more about our work and how to add their voice to NFU Scotland.

Hear directly from NFU Scotland on what we know, the latest position from the Scottish Government, what NFUS is pressing for and what happens next. Local auctioneers and veterinary practices will also join us to provide practical updates and answer questions.

20/08/2026

🚨 BLUETONGUE: NEW CONTROL ZONE INTRODUCED IN DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

The Scottish Government has today (20th August) announced a Temporary Bluetongue Control Zone in the Dumfries and Galloway area.

As there is no treatment for the virus, prevention through vaccination and restricted movements in affected areas remains the best defence. If you are not already on a waiting list for vaccination please contact us for an update on the vaccine situation.

The key points for livestock keepers are:

🔴 A Temporary Control Zone is now in place around the affected area while investigations continue.

🚫 Movement of susceptible livestock into, out of or within the Temporary Control Zone is restricted and may require a licence. This includes cattle, sheep, goats and other susceptible animals.

There are a number of detailed rules covering animal movements, licences, testing and vaccination, so livestock keepers should check the official guidance before moving animals.

👉 Scottish Government – Temporary Bluetongue Control Zone:
Read the full announcement and detailed guidance⁠:

https://www.gov.scot/news/temporary-bluetongue-control-zone-introduced/

The key facts above are based on the Scottish Government announcement published 20 August 2026 and the UK Government’s situation update, also updated today.

Animal movement restricted in an area around Dumfries and Galloway.

18/08/2026

Just a little reminder to our farm clients about the AHDB TB meeting tomorrow night at Green Valley. We understand they have planned in an additional Bluetongue (BTV) session where lead vet will give an update, discuss and answer questions relating to the current BTV situation.

Book your place at:

Join us to find out why TB levels are changing in Scotland and what you can do on your farm to reduce risk.

17/08/2026

🐶🥳These guys know how to party! 🥳🐶

While the pups socialised and made some new friends, Mum and Dad had the opportunity to chat to our RVNs Karen and Shona 🤩

If you would like to come along to our next party then please contact the surgery to pop your name on the list (please note that all pups must be fully vaccinated and under the age of 5months)

14/08/2026

🚨🚨 Cuteness Alert 🚨🚨

Sometimes you just need to stop what you are doing and have a puppy cuddle........or 4 🤩

These gorgeous Dachshunds came in to visit Alisdair and Shona for their health checks, vaccinations and microchips. 🐶

10/08/2026

‼️ Blue Tongue ‼️
A case of Bluetongue has now been confirmed in our region. It’s important for all livestock keepers to stay vigilant.

Bluetongue is spread by midges, not animal‑to‑animal contact.

🔍 Please keep an eye out for:
• Lethargy or animals “not quite right”
• Facial swelling
• Mouth ulcers or drooling
• Lameness
• Fever
• Sudden drop in milk yield

💉 **Vaccine Supply Update**
Bluetongue vaccine is currently out of stock UK‑wide.

If you wish to put an order on back order please let us know and we will update everyone as soon as stock becomes available again.

If you notice anything unusual in your cattle or sheep, contact us as soon as possible.

10/08/2026

🐾 New Client Registration is on PAWS🐾

To ensure we continue providing the best possible care and service to our existing clients, we’re taking a temporary pause on new client registrations. Please feel free to continue to submit new client request forms and we will be in touch when we are able to accept your registration.

27/07/2026

🎉Party Time🎉

Tonight we had our 1st puppy party at The Rural Vet Clinic and I think its safe to say everyone had lots of fun 😃

These sessions are designed to let the pups socialise while our RVNs are there to answer any questions you may have.

We have limited space left for our next party but please do get in touch if you would like to come along.

24/07/2026

16/07/2026

🐿️ A tiny baby squirrel visited us yesterday - cold, hungry, and very much needing specialist TLC.
Our nurse stepped in to give it a safe feed before it moved onto the care of the SSPCA.

We're always here to help, but remember, not every wild animal needs rescuing. Please follow proper wildlife advice before picking up young or injured wildlife. A quick check can make all the difference to the outcome.
Caring for wildlife means doing the right thing, not just the kind thing🐿️