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: 15th December 2022
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

Participants sought for BOAS study
The group is investigating the extent different dog breeds may be affected by breathing problems.
Researchers are seeking brachycephalic dogs aged 12 months and over.

Dog owners are beings sought for a study to identify the risk of respiratory disease in different brachycephalic breeds and improve the health and welfare of future generations.

The project is being led by the Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) Research Group at the University of Cambridge and follows 10 years of investigation by the team into brachycephalic health, funded by the Kennel Club.

Specifically, the Group is seeking owners of Affenpinschers, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Dogue de Bordeaux, Griffon Bruxellois, Japanese Chins, King Charles Spaniels, Maltese, Pekingese, Pomeranians and Shih Tzus to investigate the extent different breeds may be affected by breathing problems, and to identify any risk factors involved.

Dogs must be aged 12 months and over, and will each be given a clinical exam - during which the researchers will take conformational measurements, DNA swabs for future genetic studies and perform breathing assessments. The dogs will also undergo a rapid, non-invasive tolerance to assess respiratory function – an element of the existing Kennel Club/University of Cambridge Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) scheme currently available for the bulldog, French bulldog and pug.

Data garnered in the study will be used by the team to develop respiratory function grading for more breeds if and as required.

“Brachycephalic dogs are very popular pets, so it’s crucial that we better understand the complex and wide-ranging factors that lead to some of these dogs being affected by BOAS or other health issues,” explained Dr Jane Ladlow, European and Royal College Specialist in Small Animal Surgery and BOAS researcher leading the project.

“Those owners who participate will play their part in helping us to understand more about the relationship between respiratory issues and neurological problems, and how these issues relate to the structure of affected dogs.”

In addition to this study, the BOAS Research Group is also seeking participants for an investigation into the internal anatomy of different brachycephalic breeds. Dogs for this study must be at least four years old, require dental treatment, and should not have previously had airway surgery. 

Those interested in participating in either study are invited to contact the researchers directly via Brachy Study (University of Cambridge).

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.