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Research survey targets Cushing's Disease
University of Saskatchewan announced global survey

The University of Saskatchewan's Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) are investigating the global prevalence of Cushing's Disease, one of the most commonly diagnosed endocrine disorders in horses. A 16 question survey will be available to equine practitioners worldwide.

"Our objective is to determine the true prevalence of Cushing's disease worldwide, because until now, previous surveys were only based in the U.S.," said Dr. James Carmalt, an equine surgeon and associate professor in the WCVM's Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences. Dr Carmalt and his colleagues will use the practitioner's responses to track both the incidence of the disease around the world and any variations in practitioner's treatments. The team also wish to investigate the need for developing new treatment methodologies.

"Right now, the only available treatment for Cushing's disease requires daily dosing of medications for the rest of the horse's life. It's onerous, time consuming and a huge management challenge,"  explained Dr Carmalt, who also recommends that horse owners inform their veterinarians about the survey. "If the responses from this survey reflect our impression that practitioners need a new option to offer their clients, our ultimate goal is to develop a one-time treatment for the disease so daily medications for Cushing's disease become unnecessary."

The online survey will be available at www.wcvm.com/veterinarians/cushings_survey.php for the next six months. For more information about the Cushing's disease survey for equine practitioners,  contact Dr. James Carmalt (james.carmalt@usask.ca). As part of the survey, practitioners can also provide their email addresses if they wish to receive a copy of the survey results.

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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.