Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 21st October 2015
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Domestic dogs traced to Asia
wolf
Dogs were domesticated over 15,000 years ago but the precise time and location that this domestication occurred is the subject of hot debate.
Genetic study refutes previous findings
 
The first domestication of dogs may have occurred in central Asia, not Europe as previously thought, according to a new study led by Cornell University.

Researchers studied DNA from over 5,000 living dogs around the world, including 549 free-ranging 'village dogs' that live around human settlements.

Lead author Adam Boyko is quoted by the New Scientist as saying: "This is the first global study of genomic patterns of dog diversity.

"We find a clear pattern of genetic diversity focused on central Asia, suggesting the first domesticated dogs came from this region."

Dogs were domesticated over 15,000 years ago but the precise time and location that this domestication occurred is the subject of hot debate.

Earlier studies have pinpointed Europe, but more recent research puts the location in southern China.

However, scientists now say they have found strong evidence that domestication occurred in central Asia, possibly near modern-day Mongolia and Nepal.

The full paper has been published in PNAS: http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2015/10/14/1516215112

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.