BPEX is looking for a few more veterinary surgeons to test its Real Welfare smartphone app, which is used to collect data regarding welfare outcomes in pigs.

BPEX says it will pay vets for their time carrying out the testing but it needs regular submissions of data to give both Android and iOS a good workout.

Project Manager Katja Stoddart said: "It has been a long and sometimes difficult journey but the app is now performing well on both platforms and we are receiving positive feedback from those using it.

"That does not mean there are no problems but those that do crop up are now minor and can easily be dealt with.

"We still need a handful more vets willing to do the testing but we must stress we need regular data submission to make it worthwhile."

Ultimately the app will replace the bureau service which has only been extended until the end of this year so vets will need to change over before the bureau closes.

Katja said the portal will continue so vets can do the assessments in paper form then transfer via a computer but it will be much quicker and easier in the long run to input in real time using the app.

She added: "This will also mean the data is available immediately for the vet to discuss with the producer."

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