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Dog breeders urged to use pre-mating health tests
Popular Labrador crossbreeds were identified as being frequently affected by hip and elbow dysplasia.
Test awareness especially low among owners of ‘designer crossbreeds’  

Dog breeders and owners are being urged to speak to their vet about pre-mating health tests as new figures show many clients with ‘designer crossbreeds’ or pedigrees are unaware of the available schemes.

Results from BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey show that 70 per cent of small animal vets often or always see puppies without the relevant pre-mating screening tests, such as the Canine Health Schemes. Awareness of the tests is exceptionally low among owners of ‘designer crossbreeds’, with 77 per cent of vets reporting that many owners have not even heard of the tests.

The figures come at the start of Canine Health Schemes Month which aims to raise awareness of the important part these schemes can play in improving canine health. BVA junior vice president Daniella Dos Santos commented:

“Vets in practice regularly see cases of debilitating and distressing inherited conditions, but we know that many people may wrongly believe these tests are only relevant for Kennel Club-registered pedigrees and that crossbreed owners may be especially unaware of the dangers.

"Pre-mating screening helps breeders make the best possible choices as part of a responsible breeding programme. If we want to reduce the suffering caused by painful inherited diseases, then these tests are key.

“Your local vet and the veterinary team are perfectly placed to have conversations about pre-mating tests such as the Canine Health Schemes. Prospective puppy buyers can also do their bit for dog health by using the Puppy Contract to ensure they’re buying from a responsible breeder.”

BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey Autumn 2018 shows 90 per cent of companion animal vets see cases of lameness of joint pain related to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia every month. The most commonly reported breeds with both conditions are Labradors, with popular Labrador crossbreeds also identified as frequently affected.

The survey also reveals that a third of vets see incidents of hereditary eye conditions at least once a month. An average of 11 cases treated per year most commonly involved spaniels and collies. 

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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.