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Dog breeding defects a top concern for vets
French bulldog
Around two-thirds of companion animal vets cited breeding and hereditary defects as a major issue.
Owners urged to talk to their vet about health schemes

Vets are being encouraged to speak to clients about responsible dog breeding and buying as new figures show a huge rise in concern for conformational deformities and pedigree breeding.

According to BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey, which polled almost 700 vets across the UK, more than half (52.5%) of all the vets cited breeding and hereditary defects as the most pressing animal health and welfare issue - more than double the proportion expressing concern just two years ago.

The survey also revealed particular concern for vets working in companion animal practice, with around two-thirds (66%) citing breeding and hereditary defects as a major issue.

British Veterinary Association President Gudrun Ravetz said: “With breeding and hereditary defects emerging as the number one animal health and welfare concern for vets, it is more important than ever to screen before breeding dogs. Vets in practice regularly see cases of inherited conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye problems that are debilitating and distressing for dogs.
 
“The good news is that we have schemes and tests in place that help breeders and owners make sound judgements about responsible breeding. The BVA/KC Canine Health Schemes and Kennel Club DNA testing services are critical tools for breeders. Anyone thinking of breeding from their dog or thinking about buying a puppy should ask their vet about available health schemes and how they can be used to inform their decisions.”

This Puppy Awareness Week (4-10 September), BVA is teaming up with the Animal Welfare Foundation to promote the use of the Puppy Contract, which contains a section for the breeder to fill out about any health screening or DNA results to offer reassurance to owners.

The BVA has also produced a four-minute film on responsible dog breeding and buying that can be placed in practice waiting rooms or on social media channels which also explains the process and benefits of the Canine Health Schemes.

For more information about the BVA/KC Canine Health Schemes visit https://www.bva.co.uk/Canine-Health-Schemes/ 

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Reporting service for dead wild birds updated

News Story 1
 The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.

The new version allows those reporting a dead bird to drop a pin on a map when reporting the location. It also includes a wider range of wild bird species groups to select from when describing the bird.

The online service, which helps APHA to monitor the spread of diseases such as avian influenza, can be accessed here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
King Charles becomes patron of The Kennel Club

The Kennel Club has announced that King Charles has become its latest patron, continuing a long-standing royal tradition.

His patronage follows the support of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who was patron from 1952, the year of her coronation, until her death in 2022.

The Kennel Club has received royal support since it began in 1873, when it received support from Prince Edward, then Prince of Wales. When he ascended to the throne in 1901, King Edward began a tradition of the head of state offering their patronage.

Tony Allcock, Kennel Club Chairman, said: "We are delighted and most honoured that His Majesty the King will continue the tradition of royal support for The Kennel Club and help us in our mission in making a positive difference for dogs and their owners."