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New DNA testing scheme for miniature schnauzers
Miniature schnauzer puppy
In miniature schnauzers MAC is usually fatal and occurs at a very young age.
Test approved following consultation

A new DNA testing scheme for Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC) in the Miniature Schnauzer has been approved by the Kennel Club.

Mycobacterium Avium Complex is a form of tuberculosis, thought to be contracted through contact with infected bird droppings.

Primarily found in bids, the disease can also affect dogs, cats, goats and rabbits with compromised immune systems. In miniature schnauzers the condition is usually fatal and occurs at a very young age.

The Kennel Club says that it has approved the new test following consultation with the breed’s health coordinator. Test results will be added to the dog’s registration details which will trigger the publication of the result in the next available Breed Records Supplement.

The Kennel Club add that the result will also appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog. It will also appear on the Health Test Results Finder on the Kennel Club website. 

“Results for dogs already tested can also be recorded, but owners will need to submit copies of the DNA certificates themselves,” said a Kennel Club spokesperson. “If the owner includes the original registration certificate for the dog (not a copy) then a new registration certificate will be issued, with the DNA result on it, free of charge.”

DNA test certificates should be sent to Health and Breeder Services, The Kennel Club, Clarges Street, London, W1J 8AB or scanned and emailed tohbs@thekennelclub.org.uk.

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.