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Potential cause of chronic IBD discovered
Gluten sensitivity identified as possible IBD trigger in horses

Researchers at the Free University of Amsterdam and Utrecht University in the Netherlands have identified gluten sensitivity as a possible cause of equine chronic inflammatory small bowel disease in sport horses.

The disorder, which is associated with intermittent colic, poor performance, weight loss and anaemia, is much more common in sport horses – primarily dressage horses. The exact cause of the condition is unknown; however, the new evidence put forward will play a vital role in finding the source of the problem.

Horses which are fed a gluten-rich diet show the same antibody responses to those who suffer coeliac disease (gluten intolerance) in humans. This was tested on one sport horse suffering with chronic inflammatory bowel disease. The horse followed a gluten-free diet for 6 months, both villous morphology and blood antibody titers results improved.

A screening test aimed at identifying gluten sensitivity in individual horses based on blood samples is currently being developed.

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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.