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New DNA reporting schemes for Shetland sheepdogs
The Kennel Club has announced two new DNA reporting schemes for PRA in the Shetland sheepdog.

Schemes test for two forms of progressive retinal atrophy. 

Two new official DNA test reporting schemes for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in the Shetland sheepdog have been agreed by the Kennel Club in consultation with the Breed Health Coordinator.

The schemes are for two forms of PRA - PRA (BBS2-PRA) and PRA (CNGA1-PRA), both of which are described as autosomal-recessive conditions. This means that a dog must inherit two copies of an abnormal gene (one from its mother and one from its father) before its health is likely to be affected.

PRA is an inherited condition that leads to the gradual loss of vision in both eyes. It causes parts of the eye that are light-sensitive to break down, eventually leading to blindness. PRA can affect many dog breeds, and while the clinical effects are usually similar, each breed's version of PRA is often caused by a diffident genetic mutation.

Dogs tested for PRA will be recorded as 'clear', 'carrier' or 'affected'. The Kennel Club writes: 'To find out which laboratories the Kennel Club is able to record results from, and which labs will send results direct to the Kennel Club, please refer to the worldwide DNA testing list at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/worldwide-dna-tests. Please note that this listing is not necessarily comprehensive and other labs may offer the tests.

'The Kennel Club constantly reviews DNA testing schemes in conjunction with breed clubs to ensure that breeders are supported with resources which help them to make responsible breeding decisions.'

It continues: '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, which should be scanned and emailed to health.results@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.