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First DNA test for canine glaucoma launches at AHT
Gavin Robertson with petit basset griffon vendeen
Gavin Robertson is chairman of the Basset Griffon Vandeen Club and owner of best in show 2013 winner Jilly.

Researchers identify mutation causing a type of primary glaucoma

A new DNA test for canine glaucoma has been developed at the Animal Health Trust (AHT), after researchers were able to identify the mutation behind primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in petit basset griffon vendéens.

Glaucoma causes pain and blindness due to reduced drainage from the eye, which results in a build-up of pressure.

Primary glaucoma is an inherited condition divided into two forms - open angle and closed angle glaucoma. For closed angle glaucoma, a screening technique called gonioscopy is available to identify at-risk dogs.

The test for POAG has been developed at the AHT's Kennel Club Genetics Centre, following several years of research using DNA samples provided by owners and breeders.

Currently, the petit basset griffon vendéen is the only UK breed that is certified under the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme for POAG.

Dr Cathryn Mellersh, head of the genetics centre at AHT, said: "As there is no clinical test available to screen these dogs for POAG prior to the onset of the disease, it has been challenging for breeders to control.

"Now, any petit basset griffon vendéen can have the non-invasive DNA test, collected via a simple cheek swab, giving the owner peace of mind about both the dog’s eye health and if it is a carrier of the genetic mutation.

"Hopefully, with responsible DNA testing and breeding, we will be able to eradicate this painful and blinding condition from the petit basset griffon vendéen population."

Going forward, the centre plans to explore the genetics behind closed angle glaucoma in dogs, which affects a larger number of breeds.

The new test has been welcomed by Gavin Robertson, who is chairman of the Basset Griffon Vandeen (BGV) Club and the owner of the 2013 Crufts best in show winner, a petit basset griffon vendéen called Jilly.

"Through years of hard work, hundreds of eye tests and the submission of DNA the BGV Club are absolutely delighted that Dr Cathryn Mellersh and her team at the Animal Health Trust have identified and carried out validation experiments on the DNA responsible for POAG in the petit basset griffon vendéen," he commented.

The test will be available from the AHT DNA testing service from March 5, 2015 at a full cost of £48. A limited number of £6 off discount vouchers will be available from the AHT's stand at Crufts (stand 3-55).

Image © OnEdition, The Kennel Club

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Vets to run marathon for World Animal Protection

News Story 1
 Two recently graduated veterinary surgeons will be running the London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity World Animal Protection.

Alex Bartlett and Maeve O'Neill plan to run the race together if they are given the same start times.

Dr O'Neill said: "You're always limited in what you can do to help animals, so it is nice to raise money for a charity that helps animals around the world."

Dr Bartlett added: "I have never run a marathon before and am excited to run my first one for such a good cause!"

Both Dr Bartlett and Dr O'Neill have fundraising pages online. 

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News Shorts
BSAVA releases new Guide to Procedures

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has published a new edition of its Guide to Procedures for Small Animal Practice.

It has added four new procedures; cystostomy tube placement, endotracheal intubation, point-of-care ultrasound and wet-to-dry dressings.

BSAVA says that it is an essential step-by-step guide to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed in practice. The textbook includes new images and illustrations, as well as high-definition videos for use prior to procedures.

Nick Bexfield and Julia Riggs, editors of the new edition, said: "We have built upon the success of the previous editions by responding to the feedback received from the BSAVA readership, and hope this new guide helps to further increase the confidence and accuracy with which these procedures are performed."

Print copies are available in the BSAVA store, with a digital version in the BSAVA library.