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New resources to help breed out hip and elbow dysplasia
It is hoped that more breeds will be added in the near future, as more breeders hip and elbow score their dogs.
Two more breeds given estimated breeding values

The Kennel Club has developed new breeding resources for Newfoundlands and Dogue de Bordeaux, to help breed away from elbow and hip dysplasia.

After consultation with the breed clubs, estimated breeding values (EBVs) were created for elbow grades in Newfoundlands and hip scores in Dogue de Bordeaux.

EBVs measure genetic risk using Kennel Club data to link hip and elbow scores for individual dogs - recorded through the BVA/Kennel Club health schemes - with the available data from all of its relatives.

Originally developed with scientists from the Animal Health Trust, Roslin Institute and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, EBVs are currently available for 29 dog breeds. It is hoped that more breeds will be added in the near future, as more breeders hip and elbow score their dogs.

Dr Tom Lewis, a quantitative geneticist at the Kennel Club, said: “The latest EBVs for the Newfoundland and Dogue de Bordeaux will be available as part of the Kennel Club’s online Mate Select resource, which helps breeders to make the best breeding choices.

“We hope that anyone breeding pedigree dogs, will use – and be encouraged by the veterinary community and their peers to use – Mate Select, which helps dog breeders make decisions based on robust data that estimates genetic risk, something that will undoubtedly help to protect the future of our pedigree dogs.”

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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.