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Syringomelia screening scheme launched
Ramifications for breeding programs

A new scheme for screening dogs for syringomyelia has been launched by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and Kennel Club Canine Health Schemes team at this year's Crufts. Visitors to Crufts were able to learn about the new scheme and breeders were encouraged to have their animals screened.

The object of the scheme is to screen dogs, with particular emphasis on active or potential breeding animals, for both chiari-like malformation (a mismatch between the size of the skull and brain) and syringomyelia (the consequence thereof, in which a fluid-filled cavity develops within the spinal cord and causes severe pain). The condition is known or suspected to be inherited in a number of breeds, including Affenpinschers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (pictured), Chihuahuas, King Charles Spaniels, Maltese Terriers and Pomeranians.

Owners who wish to take part in the scheme will need to have their pet scanned by a veterinary practice with an MRI. The scan will then be reviewed and graded as appropriate by an expert panel before being returned to the practice and thence to the owners. More information and details on cost are available at the BVA website.

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.