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AHT calls for help to investigate atypical myopathy
Horse and vet
Vets who have seen clinical cases of atypical myopathy are urged to fill in a short questionnaire.

Vets and horse owners urged to fill in short questionnaire

Veterinary professionals who have seen clinical cases of atypical myopathy in 2014 are being asked to help in a collaborative research project into the disorder.

Horse owners whose animals have been affected by the condition are also being asked to help.

The research, led by the Animal Health Trust (AHT), aims to investigate the geographical distribution and clinical particularities of atypical myopathy in the UK and Ireland.

In 2014, the UK reported the highest number of atypical myopathy cases in Europe with alarming mortality rates. Therefore, the AHT say, a UK based investigation is essential to understand the particularities of the disease in this country.

Atypical myopathy causes the destruction of muscle tissue, including the heart. Clinical signs include dark coloured urine, muscle tremors, breathing problems and anorexia. The debilitating and fatal disease disease is caused by the ingestion of sycamore seeds, commonly known as "helicopters" as their shape enables them to travel several years away from where the trees are located.  

Vets who have seen clinical cases of atypical myopathy in 2014 are urged to fill in a short questionnaire providing details of the affected horse’s management, pasture details and clinical signs.

Horse owners whose horses have suffered from the disease can also help the AHT's research into the disease by providing similar information. For the horse owner survey please click here.

By collecting as many details as possible on the disease, the veterinary charity hopes to accelerate the research into the condition, furthering the understanding of the disease and improving the poor prognosis that it currently has in the UK.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.