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Kennel Club permits inter-variety matings in chihuahuas
A decision has been reached to allow inter-variety matings for chihuahuas.
Decision set to have a have 'a positive effect upon genetic diversity'

The Kennel Club Board has reached an agreement with the chihuahua breed health coordinator to allow inter-variety matings in the breed.

The agreement follows a discussion with the 10 chihuahua breed clubs about whether the breed should be able to inter-variety mate, or whether this should only be with special permission. It was revealed that the majority of respondents were in favour of inter-variety mating, without having prior permission to be sought.

In a statement, the Kennel Club said that it has agreed to allow the inter-variety mating of smooth and long coat chihuahuas. Chihuahua breed health coordinator, Dr Geoffrey Curr, said:

“This positive development for chihuahuas would not have been possible without the unanimous support of all ten breed clubs. The allowing of inter-variety matings within the breed will have a positive effect upon genetic diversity for future generations, so this is very good news indeed.”

Kennel Club genetics and research Manager, Dr Tom Lewis, added: “The move to allow inter-variety matings for chihuahuas will be helpful to breeders striving to deliver a sustainable population for generations to come and so is very welcome. The breed clubs should be proud of taking a step that will contribute to attempts to preserve genetic diversity in the Chihuahua breeds.”

Applications to register puppies resulting from inter-variety matings must be made on a paper form (not online) and all enquiries regarding such matings in Chihuahuas should be directed to hbs@thekennelclub.org.uk

 

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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.