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.
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

DNA testing scheme for miniature poodles approved
OC in miniature poodles is characterised by abnormalities in cartilage and bone development.

Scheme tests for osteochondrodysplasia

A new DNA testing scheme for osteochondrodysplasia (OC) in the miniature poodle has been launched by the Kennel Club following consultation with the breed’s health coordinator.

OC in miniature poodles is characterised by abnormalities in cartilage and bone development, resulting in severe dwarfism. Symptoms include stunted growth and abnormal movement in puppies as young as three weeks old.

Because the joints become very stiff, many puppies affected by OC are euthanised. While joint stiffness lessens as the dog matures, mobility can remain restricted owing to physical deformities. Adult dogs affected by OC are also at higher risk of osteoarthritis.

In a press release, the Kennel Club said that it constantly reviews DNA testing schemes in conjunction with breed clubs to ensure that breeders are supported in their decisions.

“The Kennel Club works alongside breed clubs and breed health coordinators in a collaborative effort to improve the health of pedigree dogs and is happy to accommodate a club's request to add a new DNA test to its lists,” a spokesperson said. “A formal request from the breed's health coordinator or a majority request from the breed clubs is normally required to do this.”

The Kennel Club said that 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 results will then appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog. They will also appear on the Health Test Results Finder on the Kennel Club website.

Image (C) Diane Pearce/Kennel Club.

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
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.