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New DNA Testing Scheme
The Kennel Club has recently approved an official DNA testing scheme for MDR1 Gene Defect/Ivermectin Sensitivity in the smooth collie breed of dog.
At the request of the Smooth Collie Club of Great Britain, the Kennel Club has recently approved an official DNA testing scheme for MDR1 Gene Defect/Ivermectin Sensitivity in this breed.

This test is offered by Laboklin and further details can be obtained from them at www.laboklin.co.uk.
 
Copies of all future test certificates for Smooth Collies issued by Laboklin for this disease will be sent directly to the Kennel Club, where the test result will be added to the dog’s details on the registration database. This will trigger the publication of the test result in the next available Breed Records Supplement, and the result will also appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog.
 
Owners who have already had their dog(s) DNA tested for this condition can send copies of the test certificate into the Kennel Club and the data will be added to the dog’s registration details. In addition, if the owner includes the original registration certificate for the dog (not a copy) then a new registration certificate will be issued, with the DNA result on it, free of charge.

Please send the DNA test certificates to:
Health & Breeder Services, The Kennel Club, 1 – 5 Clarges Street, Piccadilly, London W1J 8AB.
 
For further information on this scheme please contact Professor Jeff Sampson at jeff.sampson@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.