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New DNA test can detect multiple genetic disorders
The test packages are now available for 13 pedigree breeds.

Kennel Club partners with Weatherbys to simplify health testing 

A single cheek swab can now be used to DNA test certain dog breeds for multiple inherited diseases.

The Kennel Club has partnered with British horse racing firm Weatherbys to develop the CombiBreed health test packages, making DNA tests more accessible to breeders.

Test results will be made available on the Kennel Club website, allowing puppy buyers to check if a dog has come from health tested parents.

The test packages are now available for 13 pedigree breeds: Labrador retriever, French bulldog, cocker spaniel, English springer spaniel, golden retriever, German shepherd, Staffordshire bull terrier, Cavalier King Charles spaniel, beagle, border collie, rough collie, Chinese crested and the Australian shepherd.

Earlier this year, research by the Kennel Club and Animal Health Trust found that 10 years after each new DNA test became available, the disease-causing genetic mutation fell by 90 per cent or more in each dog breed.

Dr Tom Lewis, genetics research manager for the Kennel Club, said: “Our partnership with Weatherbys is a crucial step in improving dog health and will allow breeders to help positively impact future generations by ensuring dogs are health tested before breeding.

“The genetic tests that we have included in the Weatherbys CombiBreed packages are the result of work by the Kennel Club and Weatherbys to identify the most significant genetic diseases in individual breeds.

“The benefits of providing all relevant tests for each breed mean that puppy buyers can also feel assured that their puppy has been bred by a responsible breeder, whilst simplifying the process for breeders themselves.”

CombiBreed packages can be bought online from the Kennel Club for £135.

Image © Kennel Club

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Webinar to explore AMR in vet dentistry

News Story 1
 The WSAVA has invited veterinary professionals to a webinar on responsible antibiotic usage in dentistry.

On 19 November 2025, at 1am, Dr J Scott Weese and Dr Brooke Niemiec will share the latest advice for antimicrobial use. They will present research on oral bacterology, and explain how attendees can choose appropriate antibiotics.

The session will cover pre-, intra- and post-operative guidelines, with recommendations for various pathologies.

The webinar is designed to support veterinary professionals to make informed decisions and tackle antimicrobial resistance.

Attendees can register here. 

Click here for more...
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Dechra launches checklist for veterinary sustainability

Global animal health specialist Dechra has announced the world's first Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist (VGTC) to help make surgery more sustainable.

Endorsed by leading veterinary organisations, including the BEVA, BVNA and RCVS Knowledge, the checklist is designed to reduce the environmental footprint of veterinary care, while supporting better animal health outcomes.

The checklist was launched at the World Congress of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia in Paris and will be followed by an internal training and awareness campaign. For more information, visit dechra.com