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Kennel Club introduces new DNA test for shar-peis
POAG is recessive in the shar-pei, so carriers can be safely bred to clear dogs without the risk of producing clinically affected offspring.

Uptake for new scheme proves popular at health day

A new official DNA testing scheme for primary open angle glaucoma/primary lens luxation (POAG/PLL) in the shar-pei has been approved by the Kennel Club.

In February, the Kennel Club - together with breed clubs - held a sharp-pei health day at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) in Newmarket.

Thrilled with the uptake for the scheme, Cathryn Mellersh, head of canine genetics at the AHT, said that more than 40 dogs were swabbed for DNA tests on the day.

“The frequency of the mutation was very high among these dogs,” she explained. “This means that is is vitally important that carriers continue to be used for breeding at least for the next few generations.”

She added that not using carriers could lead to an unacceptable reduction in the genetic diversity of the breed.

“POAG is recessive in the shar-pei, so carriers can be safely bred to clear dogs without the risk of producing clinically affected offspring,” she continued. “ Although any puppies that might be used for breeding should themselves be tested prior to breeding.”

The Kennel Club constantly reviews DNA testing schemes in conjunction with breed clubs to ensure that breeders are supported with resources to help them make responsible breeding decisions.

The DNA testing scheme for the shar-pei was approved following consultation with the breed’s health co-ordinator on behalf of the breed clubs.

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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise £100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue low vector period ends

In an update to its bluetongue guidance, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced that the seasonal low vector period for the disease has ended.

With winter over, Defra is planning for a possible increase in cases as midges become more active. It has warned that farms along the east coast of England from Norfolk to Kent, and along the south coast from Kent to Devon, are at highest risk from infected midges blown over from northern Europe.

Since the virus was detected in England in November 2023, there have been 126 confirmed cases. The most recent case to be confirmed was on 1 March 2024.

Farmers are asked to continue to frequently monitor their livestock and ensure their animals and land are registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency.