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AHT makes breakthrough discovery
Dr. Oliver Foreman
Dr. Oliver Foreman with border collie, Oscar, launches the sensory neuropathy DNA test at the AHT.

Identifies genetic mutation responsible for sensory neuropathy

Scientists at the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) have identified the genetic mutation responsible for sensory neuropathy (SN).

A DNA test will be available to order from the AHT DNA Testing Service from Monday, 27 April.

A border collie combination test, testing for SN, trapped neutrophil syndrome and Vitamin B12 deficiency, will also be available to order.

Dr Oliver Forman, Genetics Researcher at the AHT and lead of the SN investigation, said: “It’s really important for the border collie population that we’ve been able to identify the genetic mutation responsible for this debilitating disease and develop a DNA test so quickly.

“Although this is a relatively rare condition, DNA testing offers the chance of eliminating this disease from the breed, and will avoid the risk of it becoming a bigger problem in the future.  As the condition is rare it’s impossible to predict which lines contain carriers so DNA testing is the only way to ensure carrier to carrier matings are avoided, which could result in litters containing affected puppies.”

SN is a severe, untreatable, neurological disease which affects young border collies. Dogs affected by the disease gradually lose sensation in their limbs due to the degeneration of sensory and motor nerve cells and have to be euthanised.

The onset of the disease is usually between two and seven months of age and clinical signs include knuckling of the feet, self-mutilation wounds and a progressive lack of coordination.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, said: “We are delighted that the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust has made this breakthrough, which will undoubtedly improve the health of border collies by enabling breeders to help eradicate this nasty condition from their breed.

“Scientists at the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the AHT are making great strides in their work, which goes a long way in improving dog health across the board and we would encourage Border Collie breeders to utilise the new DNA test to help cement the next stage in their breed’s health – eradicating this horrible disease.”

For more information about SN, or to order the test, visit: www.aht.org.uk/caninegeneticssuccess.

Image (C) The Kennel Club Genetics Centre

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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.