This compendium has been produced by members of staff at the Organic Livestock Research Group (OLRG) at the Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics Research Unit (VEERU), Department of Agriculture, The University of Reading. The production of the compendium was funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) (see: Disclaimers and Copyright ).

The aim of the compendium is to serve as a resource material and training tool for farmers, advisors, inspectors, veterinarians, organic sector bodies and policy makers on issues related to general and specific animal health and welfare aspects of organic livestock production.

The compendium is divided into five sections. There is a general section on veterinary management of organic livestock , that acts as a quick reference point for issues like health planning, prohibited or allowed substances and withdrawal periods after the use of specific medicinal products. The health and welfare of sheep , cattle, pigs and poultry  are detailed in four separate sections that form the main body of the compendium. 

It should be emphasised that the compendium is not intended as a diagnostic or self-help tool for animal health management on the farm. Diagnosis should always be carried out by a veterinary surgeon, in response to problems seen on the farm (see: Disclaimers and Copyright).

The compendium authors would like to thank the many advisors, farmers, veterinarians and organisations who have reviewed parts or the entire compendium during the writing process (see: Acknowledgements).

The compendium is also available on a CD ROM, which you can order by  post (print out a form to  order copies ) or by e-mail ( Internet). 

Compendium authors:

Malla Hovi, Stephen Roderick, Geert Wassink, Roger Oakeley

 Reading, 28th January  2001