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DNA control scheme approved for von Willebrand disease
Scheme hopes to improve health of German wirehaired pointers

The Kennel Club has approved a new DNA control scheme for von Willebrand disease (vWD) in German wirehaired pointers, at the request of the German Wirehaired Pointer Club.

The purpose of the scheme is to improve the health of the breed by eliminating vWD from German wirehaired pointers.

The Kennel Club has set out protocols for  breeders to adhere to, in order to breed puppies that will not be affected by the condition.

Breeders are required to undertake the following steps, which will come into effect from January 1, 2015:

1.    All German wirehaired pointers that are used for breeding should be either proven hereditarily clear of vWD; or have a vWD DNA test before they are used for breeding.

2.    Identified carriers may be used for breeding only if they are mated with a pointer that is either hereditarily clear or DNA tested clear of vWD. Carriers should not be mated with carriers and the Kennel Club will refuse to register any offspring that results from such a mating.

3.    All of the offspring of a carrier mated to a clear pointer must be identified, DNA tested and then registered as either clear or a carrier.

Von Willebrand disease is a hereditary blood clotting defect that is prominent in a few dog breeds, including German wirehaired pointers. The bleeding disorder can prove fatal so it is important at risk dogs are screened and tested.

The Kennel Club works alongside breed clubs and breed health coordinators in a collaborative effort to improve the health of pedigree dogs.

For more information, please contact the Kennel Club Health and Breeder Services Department by emailing hbs@thekennelclub.org.uk.

 

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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
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.