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DNA testing scheme for basset hounds approved
A new DNA testing scheme for basset hounds has been approved by the Kennel Club.
Scheme will test for primary open angle glaucoma

A new DNA testing scheme for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in the basset hound has been approved by the Kennel Club.

POAG is a disease caused by a small increase in fluid pressure within the eye and can lead to blindness. It is normally seen in dogs between three and six years old, but onset at a later age is also possible.

The new DNA testing scheme for POAG has been approved following consultation with the health coordinator for the breed. In a press release, a spokesperson for the Kennel Club said:

‘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 result will appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog, and also 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. 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.'

The Kennel Club is also reminding owners that from 1st August, 2018 it will be mandatory that the dog’s microchip or tattoo number is recorded on any DNA certificates, along with the dog’s registered name or number.

'Any test results that do not carry these identifying features will not be accepted for recording on the Kennel Club database,' the Kennel Club said. 

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.