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Kennel Club Approves DNA Test
Following a working partnership with the Dachshund Breed Council, the Kennel Club has formally released a new DNA testing scheme for the extreme eye condition GPRA cord 1.   GPRA or Generalised Progressive Retinal Atrophy, has several different types or strands which are inherited retinal diseases.  Cord 1 is more predominant in miniature wirehaired dachshunds, and causes a severe loss in night vision.  As the condition is incurable, a DNA test to identify the condition will prove invaluable if owners consider breeding.

The Animal Health Trust and Laboklin will provide tests and certificates of results.  In order to continually examine the presence of the condition, copies of certificates will be sent to the Kennel Club and results added to a registration database. A summary of results will be published in the Breeds Records Supplement.  The results will also appear on any future registration certificates or any future progeny of the dog.
 
If you are fully on the ball with this hereditary condition, and your dog has been DNA tested, you can send copies of the relevant test certificate to the Kennel Club, to then also be included in the database.
 
Help keep track of this condition and send you DNA test certificates to:
 
The Health & Breeder Services Department
The Kennel Club 1
5 Clarges Street
Piccadilly
London
W1J 8AB
 
Or if electronic is more suitable, just email gary.johnson@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.