Think twice before taking on livestock

The Island's most senior vet has raised concerns about the growing number of farm animals being kept as pets.

Government veterinary officer Richard Ashworth says increasing numbers of landowners who don't farm commerically are choosing to keep cattle, sheep and pigs as a hobby, or to control grassland.

Mr Ashworth says there are strict rules on the movement and identification of livestock, and on the testing, handling and treatment of sick or lame animals, which all keepers must stick to.

Co-presenter of Manx Radio's Countryside programme John Kennaugh says an interesting trend is emerging in local land use (play audio file):

Mr Kennaugh says people should think very carefully before taking on responsibility for livestock.