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: 2nd August 2021
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 testing scheme for Tibetan terriers
The new scheme tests for pituitary dwarfism in the Tibetan terrier.
Test results will be added to the dog’s registration details.

The Kennel Club has announced a new DNA test reporting scheme for pituitary dwarfism in the Tibetan terrier.

Launched following consultation with the breed’s health coordinator, on behalf of the breed clubs, the results of the test will be recorded with the abbreviation 'DP-LHX3'.

“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,” said Dr Joanna Ilska, genetics & research manager at The Kennel Club.

“The Kennel Club works alongside breed clubs and breed health coordinators in a collaborative effort to improve the health of pedigree dogs and is happy to consider a club's request to add a new DNA test to its lists. A formal request from the breed's health coordinator or a majority request from the breed clubs is normally required to do this.”

Pituitary dwarfism is an inherited disease caused by insufficient amounts of growth hormone in the body. Puppies with the condition may not be noticeably different at birth, but their growth will not follow the usual pattern, and they can die at a young age.

Owners of dogs with pituitary dwarfism may notice their dogs are smaller than others of the same breed and that they may remain puppy-like in looks. Affected dogs may retain their soft puppy coat, experience hair loss or have problems with tooth development.

Dogs tested for the condition will be recorded on the Kennel Club systems as one of the following:

Clear
The dog does not have any copies of the abnormal gene associated with the disease. The dog is highly unlikely to be clinically affected and will only pass on a normal copy of the gene to a puppy.

Carrier
The dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the abnormal gene associated with the disease. The dog is highly unlikely to be clinically affected but may pass one copy of the normal gene, or one copy of the abnormal gene onto a puppy.

Affected
The dog has two copies of the abnormal gene associated with the disease. The dog will likely be clinically affected by the disorder and will pass one copy of the abnormal gene to any potential offspring.

More information about which laboratories The Kennel Club can record results from - and which labs will send results direct to The Kennel Club - can be found at : thekennelclub.org.uk/DP-LHX3

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. Results will also be added to the Health Test Results Finder on The Kennel Club website. 

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

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.