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BHA clarifies use of levothyroxine sodium
Racehorses
Levothyroxine sodium must not be present in the horses system on raceday.
Horse must show evidence of equine metabolic syndrome or hypothyroidism

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has issued a notice clarifying whether, when and how levothyroxine sodium may be administered under the BHA Rules of Racing.

Levothyroxine sodium is a prohibited substance and therefore must not be present in the horses system on raceday. It is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone, thyroxine, that is made and released by the thyroid gland.

The BHA's rule on the use of veterinary treatment and medication states that “every treatment must be fully justifiable by the medical condition of the horse receiving the treatment”.

For the administration of the hormone to be justified, the organisation say that the horse must have undergone dynamic endocrine tests, which show good evidence of either equine metabolic syndrome or hypothyroidism.

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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.