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Kennel Club Genetics Centre set to re-open in Cambridge
(Pictured) Bill King, chairman of The Kennel Club Charitable Trust with his Dandie Dinmont Terrier.

New centre will continue vital research into dog health.

The Kennel Club has confirmed that the Kennel Club Canine Genetics Centre will officially re-open at a new location at the University of Cambridge.

The Kennel Club Canine Genetics Centre was originally opened in 2009 at the Animal Health Trust, which closed last year. During this time researchers developed 25 different DNA tests for canine inherited diseases that affect over 50 breeds. Research into the impact of these tests has shown that, over a ten year period, the frequency of disease-causing genetic variants in some breeds was reduced by 90 per cent.

The new centre will resume its vital research into genetic mutations and the development of breeding tools for some of the most common and debilitating inherited conditions in dogs. The previous centre's collection of more than 40,000 DNA samples has also been transferred to the University of Cambridge.

Dr Cathryn Mellersh, head of the new centre, said: “The last ten years have been incredibly important to dog health and, thanks to the University of Cambridge, especially Professor James Wood, head of the Department of Veterinary Medicine at Cambridge Vet School, for all his assistance in safeguarding our resources and The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, this work can now continue.

“Our work to support breeders in reducing health problems in dogs is essential and we are eager to continue this important work and are thankful to everyone for their support.”

Bill King, chairman of The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, said: “The Kennel Club Genetics Centre has made an enormous positive impact on the health of dogs whilst under the auspices of the Animal Health Trust, the closure of which we were saddened and concerned to learn of last year.

“We’re now thrilled that the centre has found a home in such a reputable and prestigious research institute, and we’re very much looking forward to collaborating with the centre once more.”

Image (c) Bill Moores.

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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.