New vet podcast aimed at farmers 

Paragon Veterinary Group has launched a podcast – Paragon Vetcast – to share its expertise with farmers, starting with two episodes on advanced breeding

The initial episodes are aimed primarily at dairy and beef farmers, though they will also be of interest to the wider public and to veterinary students, Paragon says. 

Hot topic

The first episode sees David Black, senior director of Paragon, and Rob Simmons, veterinary surgeon, director and lead vet for advanced breeding, in conversation with journalist Julian Whittle about the benefits of advanced breeding techniques such as IVF.

The speakers make that point that advanced breeding can help all livestock farmers – not only elite breeders – by maximising the number of calves from the best animals so improving the quality of the herd.

Increasingly, they say, advanced breeding is being used to enhance methane efficiency and improve animal welfare, as well as to maximise production.

The podcast also touches on cutting-edge innovations such as embryo biopsies genomics and epigenetics.

The second episode, on sustainability in advanced breeding, is due for release in June.

Future podcasts will cover other aspects of the veterinary practice. 

David Black, senior director of Paragon, said: “We’re starting with two podcasts on advanced breeding, because it’s a really hot topic, but we are planning future episodes covering other aspects of veterinary work from small animal to equine and farm.”

Paragon says it’s an authority on advanced breeding, having started its cattle embryo service way back in 1993. It has expanded since then to work throughout Scotland and England, and even onto Jersey. 

It was at the forefront of developing cattle IVF in the UK and is active in research and development projects, working with partners in Nottingham, Kent, North America and Zimbabwe.

New venture

Mr Black said: “The podcast is an exciting new venture for us.

“It’s another way for us to communicate with clients and potential clients and share insights into the latest veterinary developments.

“The great thing about podcasts is that you can listen anytime or anywhere – while you’re driving, working on the farm, walking the dog or even taking a bath.”

Where to listen

Paragon Vetcast is available through all the usual podcast platforms including Amazon, Spotify and Apple. You can also watch clips of the podcast being recorded on Paragon’s YouTube channel.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paragon-vetcast/id1745489040

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vJVBlgTIxeW5a0gXBT0Re

Read more livestock news.