Canine Genetics Centre Progresses
The Kennel Club Genetics Centre has established the carrier status of more than 11000 dogs, due to tests developed by the centre since its establishment at the Animal Health Trust in 2009.
The KCGC has focussed on helping dog breeders to reduce or eradicate inherited disease from their breeds, achievable through the development and provision of essential tools which minimise the risk of breeding affected puppies.
The Kennel Club Charitable Trust has committed £1.2 million to the genetics centre to investigate the mutations responsible for inherited diseases. So far, five different mutations associated with diseases in twenty breeds of dog have been identified.
Cathryn Mellersh, head of canine genetics at the AHT, said: "The creation of the KCGC has been a huge step forward in inherited disease research in dogs. The centre has helped to focus attention on this important area and without the support of the Kennel Club and all the various breed clubs and individual breeders, we would not have made so much progress."
The KCGC set out to investigate a number of inherited diseases between 2009 and 2013. Currently, it is investigating the genetics of a wide range of inherited conditions, including idiopathic epilepsy in border collies and hereditary cataract and progressive retinal atrophy in many breeds, including Siberian huskies, miniature schnauzers and Tibetan spaniels.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
