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DNA testing scheme for basset hounds approved
A new DNA testing scheme for basset hounds has been approved by the Kennel Club.
Scheme will test for primary open angle glaucoma

A new DNA testing scheme for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in the basset hound has been approved by the Kennel Club.

POAG is a disease caused by a small increase in fluid pressure within the eye and can lead to blindness. It is normally seen in dogs between three and six years old, but onset at a later age is also possible.

The new DNA testing scheme for POAG has been approved following consultation with the health coordinator for the breed. In a press release, a spokesperson for the Kennel Club said:

‘Test results will be added to the dog’s registration details which will trigger the publication of the result in the next available Breed Records Supplement. The result will appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog, and also on the Health Test Results Finder on the Kennel Club website.

‘Results for dogs already tested can also be recorded, but owners will need to submit copies of the DNA certificates themselves. If the owner includes the original registration certificate for the dog (not a copy) then a new registration certificate will be issued, with the DNA result on it, free of charge.'

The Kennel Club is also reminding owners that from 1st August, 2018 it will be mandatory that the dog’s microchip or tattoo number is recorded on any DNA certificates, along with the dog’s registered name or number.

'Any test results that do not carry these identifying features will not be accepted for recording on the Kennel Club database,' the Kennel Club said. 

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
NSA webinar explores sheep tailing and castration

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is to host a free webinar on the castration and tail docking of lambs.

The webinar, 'Understanding the tailing and castration consultation: A guide for sheep farmers', will be hosted online on Monday, 2 March 2026 at 7.30pm.

It comes during a government consultation into the methods used for these procedures. Farmers are encouraged to engage before the consultation period closes on Monday, 9 March 2026.

The webinar offers clear and actionable guidance to support farmers to contribute meaningfully to the consultation and prepare for potential changes.

On the panel will be former SVS president Kate Hovers, farmer and vet Ann Van Eetvelt and SRUC professor in Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences Cathy Dwyer. Each panel member will utilise their own specialism and expertise to evaluate risks and outcomes to sheep farming.

Find out more about the webinar on the NSA website.