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Scientists develop tool to reduce inherited disease
Labrador
Creators of the new tool say it is more effective than using hip and elbow scores alone.
Crufts launch for new hip and elbow dysplasia resource

Scientists have developed a new tool that will allow dog breeders to calculate the risk of passing down inherited conditions more efficiently.

Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) have been created to help breeders reduce the risk of hip and elbow dysplasia and will be launched at Crufts this week.

This new resource uses data from the BVA/Kennel Club hip and elbow schemes to determine the risk of inheriting these conditions for each individual dog.

Scientists from the Animal Health Trust (AHT), the Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, worked alongside the Kennel Club to develop the tool.

Creators say EBVs will be more effective in reducing the risk of developing hip and elbow dysplasia than using elbow and hip scores alone.

Dr Tom Lewis, quantitative geneticist for AHT, explained: "We have been working with the Kennel Club for a number of years to develop EBVs.

"EBVs are a more accurate indicator of genetic predisposition to hip and elbow dysplasia, because in their calculation we use the pedigree to link hip and elbow scores for an individual dog with that of all its relatives thereby making more effective use of the scoring data provided by the BVA/KC schemes.

"They allow more accurate selection since only the genetics is inherited across generations."

EBVs are now available for 15 different breeds, including the German shepherd, border collie, Labrador and Rottweiler. It is hoped this number will rise as more breeders hip and elbow score their dogs the the BVA/KC schemes.

The resource has become part of the Kennel Club's existing Mate Select service - a resource that aims to help breeders to make informed choices.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.