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New DNA test for Beagles
Results used to fight degenerative disorder

Scientists from the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) have successfully identified a genetic mutation which causes a severe progressive neurological disorder in Beagles.

A DNA test for Neonatal Cerebellar Cortical Degenerations (NCCD) has been launched, which could eliminate the condition before it becomes a widespread problem in the breed in the UK.

The NCCD mutation is rare in the UK and the AHT estimates around five out of every one hundred Beagles are probably carriers. Carriers, which are dogs with a single copy of the mutation, will not suffer from NCCD but dogs with two copies of the mutation, resulting from a mating between two carriers, will suffer from the disease.

Steve Dean, Kennel Club Chairman said: “We are delighted that scientists at the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust have been able to develop a DNA test at such an early stage, which will help to ensure that breeders can breed dogs that are free from the condition in the future.”

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
New form for online veterinary medicines retailers

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has produced a new online form for retailers wishing to sell veterinary medicines on the internet.

The form replace the previous Word version and is part of the VMD's ongoing commitment to digitise its processes. Anyone retailing prescription medicines online, including POM-V, POM-VPS and NFA-VPS categories, is lawfully required to register with the VMD before trading.

The change only applies to new applicants. Retailers already listed on the VMD's Register of Online Retailers or registered under the Accredited Internet Retailer Scheme (AIRS) do not need to do anything.