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.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 9th June 2020
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

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'

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.