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TB-resistant cattle could be bred, study finds
cow
Genetic traits linked to TB resistance were found in healthy cows.
Selective breeding may help control bTB, research shows

Farmers may be able to breed cattle with increased resistance to bovine tuberculosis (bTB), scientists have discovered.

Led by the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute, the research compared the genetic codes of healthy and TB-infected female Holstein Friesians.

In the cows that remained unaffected by the disease, scientists identified a number of genetic signatures linked to TB resistance.

Researchers from the institute say the findings are significant, as they help to determine whether bTB control could be improved by selective breeding.
 
Lead researcher Professor Glass, said: “If we can choose animals with better genotypes for TB resistance, then we can apply this information in new breeding programmes alongside other control strategies. It is hoped that can help us to more effectively control TB in cattle.”

The disease is responsible for major economic losses worldwide, impacting both animal welfare and farm profitability. The University of Edinburgh says the effects of bTB cost the UK government £152 million from 2010 to 2011.

Published in the journal Heredity, this study builds on previous research by the institute that indicated genetic make-up could be linked to increased resistance to TB.

A further study will focus on refining the genomic predictors of resistance, for which the institute will collaborate with Scotland's Rural College and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute.

The study is available online here.

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.