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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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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."